Rooney says England missed Foden and Palmer in goalless draw with Ghana
England played to a goalless draw with Ghana in Boston on June 22, 2026, despite controlling 79% of possession and firing 19 shots compared to Ghana’s two. Former England striker Wayne Rooney said the team missed the creativity of Phil Foden and Cole Palmer, who were left out of the squad. He quoted the Manchester United legend as saying, "These games are more difficult than games against better teams that are better going forward. There's more space," and added, "I don't want to go back to it, but these games are when you need a Phil Foden or a Cole Palmer. Clever players in tight areas."
The result highlights England’s struggle to break down defensive, low‑block sides—a tactical issue that could affect their World Cup progression. For Nigerian fans following England’s campaign, it signals that reliance on direct play may not be enough against teams that sit deep and absorb pressure.
Do you think England should recall Foden and Palmer for future matches, or trust Thomas Tuchel’s current squad to find a way to unlock such defenses?