England, under by Thomas Tuchel, defeated Latvia 3-0 on Monday night at Wembley to make it two wins from two. Three days after defeating Albania, a Three Lions team that had four changes in the starting lineup managed to maintain their perfect record under their new manager, but under less than convincing conditions.
A spectacular free-kick from Reece James, making his first international appearance since September 2022, calmed the nerves and gave the home team the lead after a few scares that would have given the visitors the advantage. Harry Kane then scored again, and Eberechi Eze completed the scoring. But James’ incredible goal—his first while wearing the England colors—wasn’t the only thing that made headlines; his heroics have now put pressure on another famous player.
Reece James Impresses Against Latvia
The world-class free-kick was the icing on the cake for the defender
Aside from his fantastic goal, James was one of England’s best overall performers all night. The full-back lost possession of the ball just five times, despite the fact he had over 110 touches of the ball and played 97 passes – 96 of which were successful. He also proved to be a creative threat, playing one key pass to his teammates, while being accurate with 66% of his crosses.
Given that the Three Lions had more than 70% possession, there wasn’t a great deal of defending to be done, but there was enough for James to still get in the thick of it. The 25-year-old made two interceptions, two tackles, and won 50% of his ground duels, showcasing great defensive prowess, which is deemed to be one of the weaknesses of another man competing for the right-back spot, who should perhaps fear for his place in the starting XI moving forward if James can stay fit.
England Fans Demand James Replaces Trent Alexander-Arnold
The two right-backs are likely to compete for the spot at the 2026 World Cup
Trent Alexander-Arnold of Liverpool, who would have undoubtedly added to his 33 caps had it not been for the injury he sustained against Paris Saint-Germain when the Reds were ousted from the Champions League, was one of the greatest losses from Tuchel’s first group. During the new manager’s first two games in charge, the 26-year-old was forced to watch as James and Kyle Walker played on the right side of the back four.
The Chelsea captain in particular took full advantage of his chance, and supporters are already clamouring for him to be the starting right-back for the 2026 World Cup if he remains healthy.
“The best right-back in football should be playing for Real Madrid, but injuries have prevented us from seeing him. On social media, one fan wrote: “Alexander-Arnold is fortunate that Reece James is unlucky,” while another wrote: “Reece James reminding everyone he can do everything Trent can do and more.”
“As long as James is healthy, don’t expect to see Trent starting, Tuchel might bring back 2021 RJ,” a third person commented, while a fourth person continued, “Reece James receives far too much disrespect.” People forgot that he is the world’s best running back because of his frequent injuries. talent across generations.
Reece James reminding everyone he can do everything Trent can do and more.
— Dzner™️ (@DznerV3) March 24, 2025
Reece James >>> Trent Alexander Arnold
— 𝐍𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞 (@nuradeeeen) March 24, 2025
The disrespect Reece James get is way too much
Frequent injuries made people forgot that he is the best RB in the world
Generational talent— PBTIPS⚽️👀 (@pbtips_) March 24, 2025
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