THOMAS NEEDS TUCH OF CLASS THROUGH MIDDLE

THOMAS TUCHEL might still be new to the role of England manager.

- by JEREMY CROSS

THOMAS TUCHEL might still be new to the role of England manager.

But there is something old and familiar about some of the puzzles he must solve if his Three Lions are to stand a realistic chance of winning the World Cup.

The clock is ticking, with next summer's tournament less than 53 weeks from kicking off.

And with little or no demanding tests awaiting England between now and then, Tuchel (inset) will feel like having to fine tune a team blindfolded.

But the German must open his eyes to the one area of his side that promises to define whether games are won or lost. Midfield.

Much will depend on which formation Tuchel decides to go with.

But whatever he chooses, there is little doubt his midfield will include both Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice.

The feeling has been that Bellingham remains indispensable.