Rafomac News, Tech & Trends That MatterThe fallout from England’s recent World Cup run continues as Martin Keown pushes back against harsh critiques of Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka. He pins some blame on player burnout and questions manager decisions, shedding fresh light on their performances.
Why Bukayo Saka’s Hat-Trick Highlights a Bigger Question
Bukayo Saka’s stunning hat-trick in the third-place playoff against France wasn’t just a show of talent; it was a clear response to his baffling absence in the semi-final. Saka himself said he felt fit to play, and even Argentina looked surprised when he didn’t get on the pitch. Keown agrees, calling it a missed opportunity for England with Saka proving his worth once given the chance.
However, there’s more beneath the surface. Keown highlighted Saka’s ongoing Achilles tendon issues, suggesting his performances were influenced by managing a nagging injury. Arsenal fans can take some comfort that unlike other players nursing stress fractures, Saka seems set for a healthier start to next season – a vital consideration for his long-term output.
Declan Rice: Limited or Just Worn Out?
Graeme Souness stirred the pot by calling Declan Rice “limited,” questioning how a £100 million player still has room for improvement. Keown refutes the harsh label, emphasizing Rice’s unmatched attitude, athleticism, and commitment throughout every minute on the field. His sole critique: Rice might not have the flair some expect from a midfield dynamo — but that’s not why he’s valued so highly.
Keown points to player burnout and a neural back injury Rice is managing, conditions that can sap quickness and sharpness. It’s easy to see how piling on 69 games of intense competitive football could wear down even the best talents. He reminds that Rice’s role often resembles a ‘Rodri-type’ defensive midfielder, whose value lies in positional discipline rather than constant dribbling or breath-taking flair.
England’s Rising and Falling Stars
Besides Rice and Saka, Keown singles out Jude Bellingham as a breakout World Cup superstar, calling him a “world force” and a major credit of the tournament. Elliot Anderson and Jed Spence also impressed, though some, like Cole Palmer and O’Riley, didn’t quite reach their club form on England duty.
Keown also reflects on England’s shaky squad selection under Thomas Tuchel, noting the manager never fielded the same starting eleven twice. This volatility left players guessing and potentially unsettled the side. The lesson? Stability and loyalty, like Spain and Argentina have shown, might form a stronger platform moving forward.
Looking Ahead: The Next England Generation
With veterans Jordan Pickford and Harry Kane approaching the twilight of their England careers, Keown voices concern over the lack of clear successors in key positions—especially striker. Kane’s tendency to drift deep sometimes dilutes England’s attacking threat, suggesting a tactical shift may be needed.
Meanwhile, reintegrating players left out of recent squads, such as Alexander-Arnold and Foden, poses challenges but also opportunities to restore depth and quality. The national team must build a dependable core that triumphs over occasional disappointments and uncertainty.
England’s next test is the Nations League game against world champions Spain at Wembley—an occasion to see if lessons have been learned and progress made.
