World Cup 2026: Wayne Rooney to start Kobi Mainu against DR Congo

The game kicks off at 17:00 BST and is live on BBC One and BBC Radio 5 Live.

Former England striker Emile Heskey, speaking on the show, said Tuchel turned to 36-year-old Brentford midfielder Jordan Henderson for the closing stages of the group’s 2-0 win over Panama and was surprised he didn’t go to Mainu.

“I was surprised Jordan Henderson was on the team,” Heskey said. “And you bring 30-year-olds to see the game you brought, and 20-year-olds don’t have to do the same.

“He probably has three more tournaments ahead of him and he can grow in the tournament. I’m not sure how I would feel as Kobi Mainu.”

Speaking about the Panama game, Rooney said: “Against low block teams you play Bellingham deeper. He’s a player of intensity, desire and drive.

“Morgan Rodgers is more suited to scoring on his back than Bellingham. You’ll see Judd in that position against bigger teams.”

Of Anderson’s potential record move and performance for England, Heskey said: “You have to look past the price tag. The beating stick is always going to be the price tag.”

Rooney said: “He’s a fantastic player.

“I’m disappointed Manchester United didn’t get him but we’ve seen when players go for big money – like Calvin Phillips and Jack Grealish to some extent – they (sometimes) don’t fit.”

Asked about Rice and Anderson playing as defensive midfielders, Rooney said: “I don’t think it was needed in the Ghana game.”