England's Eze Remains Focused Despite Fringe Role at 2026 World Cup

England's Eze Remains Focused Despite Fringe Role at 2026 World Cup

By Admin 

England midfielder Eberechi Eze has insisted he is ready to make an impact whenever called upon after seeing limited action under manager Thomas Tuchel at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Arsenal midfielder has played just 16 minutes across England's opening two group-stage matches but says he remains patient and prepared as the Three Lions head into their final Group I fixture against Panama.

Eze believes his experience at Arsenal has equipped him to handle his current situation with the national team. After completing a £67 million move to the North London club last summer, the 27-year-old initially struggled for regular playing time before establishing himself as an important figure during the second half of the season.

He says that experience has reinforced the importance of staying mentally prepared.

"It definitely does help. I feel like that's the type of position I've been put in," Eze said when asked whether his Arsenal journey had prepared him for his current role with England.

"It's the mentality I've grown up having as well—staying ready, staying resilient and trusting that the time will come.

"And whenever you're called upon, being ready to express yourself and give what you've got.

"If that's the case this tournament, I'm sure I'll be ready for that."

Tuchel is expected to rotate his squad against Panama following England's disappointing goalless draw with Ghana in Boston, a result that exposed the team's struggles to break down a well-organised defence.

Eze suggested that deploying two attacking midfielders could offer England greater creativity against teams that defend deep.

"Yeah, I think that's an option," he said.

"It's something that the manager has spoken about before, so it's definitely something that we've got."

The Arsenal midfielder also provided an update on teammate Declan Rice, who sustained a dead leg during the draw against Ghana. Rice, who is carrying a yellow card into the final group match, could be rested as a precaution.

However, Eze dismissed concerns over the midfielder's condition.

"He's Dec. He plays football, and he wants to play football," Eze said.

"He wants to play every game, and he'll do whatever he can to help the team.

"When you're watching him play, I don't see him playing as if he's carrying anything. You see him enjoying himself and having fun. I'm sure he's OK."

Eze also brushed aside claims made by a Ghanaian witchdoctor who alleged that a curse on Harry Kane had been lifted following the England captain's missed late opportunity against Ghana.

Asked about the suggestion, Eze responded: "Do you believe that? I'm not too interested in that type of conversation."

England will aim to secure a return to winning ways against Panama as they look to build momentum ahead of the knockout rounds. For Eze, the focus remains on staying prepared and making the most of any opportunity that comes his way.