World Cup Q&A: England reporter Jacob Steinberg answers your questions – live
Jacob was in Atlanta last night to witness England’s Harry Kane-led comeback against DR Congo. He is online now answering all your questions about the Three Lions’ chances against Mexico, England’s defensive frailties and anything else you’d like to know
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maccamacmac asks: Why isn’t John Stones playing?
Jacob says: I think it’s pretty telling that Tuchel’s reaction to losing Tino Livramento at right-back was to bring in a sixth centre-back in Trevoh Chalobah. That was after seeing Stones play in the warm-up games against New Zealand and Costa Rica. Stones played five games for Man City after Christmas. If he’s off the pace it isn’t surprising. But he might be needed against Mexico.
Jacob says: Maybe, but do you remember how Arsenal struggled when Rice went out of midfield and to right-back after Ben White got injured against West Ham in May? Also with Rice looking weary and feeling a hamstring issue would he be able to take on Julian Quinones? And if you take him out of midfield who plays? Tuchel clearly doesn’t trust Mainoo. The Azteca doesn’t seem the moment to throw in Jordan Henderson. And it didn’t work from a defensive perspective when Jude Bellingham played deeper against Panama.
