Declan Rice may be benched by Thomas Tuchel for England's round of 32 game against DR Congo.
Rice missed the final group game against Panama due to a calf issue.
What happened?
Paul Scholes questioned whether Rice provides enough forward momentum for this England side.
Scholes spoke on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, suggesting England don't need two sitting midfielders.
Why it matters for Declan Rice
Scholes thinks Elliot Anderson would pass the ball forward more than Rice.
Anderson is reportedly close to a £116m move to Manchester City.
What comes next?
Nicky Butt disagrees with Scholes, insisting Rice should play in the next game.
Butt thinks Rice is a top player who cannot be left out.
Rice is expected to return for the round of 32 game after recovering from his calf issue.
On the other hand, Scholes believes England are behind defending champions Argentina and fellow 2022 finalists France.
Scholes delivered a blunt assessment of England's overall prospects, citing the lack of fluidity in the group stages.
England won their group stage games, but Scholes doesn't think they've shown the quality to win the World Cup.
The legendary playmaker worries about the tougher tests awaiting in the bracket.
Rice's Arsenal form has been questioned by Scholes, who thinks the team didn't play great football last season.
Rice's ability to get Martin Odegaard in the game was also questioned by Scholes.
Butt thinks Rice is one of those players you just don't leave out, given his quality and importance to the team.
Rice's potential benching has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike.
The England manager Thomas Tuchel will have to make a tough decision on whether to start Rice or Anderson.
The round of 32 game against DR Congo will be a crucial test for England's World Cup hopes.
Rice's performance will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.
The outcome of the game will depend on various factors, including the team's strategy and player selection.
England's chances of reaching the knockout stages will be boosted if they can get past DR Congo.
The team's preparation and mindset will be key to their success in the tournament.
Rice's experience and leadership will be vital in the upcoming games.
The midfielder's ability to control the game and create scoring opportunities will be crucial.
England's fans will be hoping for a strong performance from Rice and the team.
The World Cup is a prestigious tournament, and England will be looking to make a deep run.
Rice's role in the team will be important in determining their success.
The player's skills and abilities make him a valuable asset to the team.
England's manager will have to make some tough decisions to ensure the team's success.
The World Cup is a challenging tournament, and only the best teams will succeed.
Rice and England will be looking to make a strong impression in the round of 32 game.
The team's performance will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.
The outcome of the game will be important in determining England's chances of advancing.
Rice's performance will be a key factor in the team's success.
The midfielder's ability to perform under pressure will be crucial.
England's fans will be hoping for a strong performance from the team.
The World Cup is a tournament where only the best teams succeed.
Rice and England will be looking to make a deep run in the tournament.
The team's preparation and mindset will be key to their success.
Rice's experience and leadership will be vital in the upcoming games.
The midfielder's ability to control the game and create scoring opportunities will be crucial.