NICO TIME FOR TUCH

O'Reilly making late charge to fill England's problem left-back slot

- BY JOHN CROSS

THOMAS TUCHEL has most of his World Cup starting XI nailed down.

But one position - above every other on the pitch - remains a major issue.

Incredibly, England have used 10 left-backs in their last 17 games dating back to the Euro 2024 semifinal against Holland.

That is why this camp - and another test against Albania today - could be so important for one of the contenders to put themselves in pole position.

One of the biggest takeaways from England's win over Serbia at Wembley on Thursday night was the performance of Manchester City's Nico O'Reilly.

The 20-year-old was hugely impressive as he looks big and strong, is good on the ball and was aggressive going forward as well as being solid in defence.