Thomas Tuchel makes huge Rashford selection call ahead of DR Congo clash – David Ornstein

England boss Thomas Tuchel has made a big selection call on Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford ahead of the crucial game against DR Congo later today. World Cup campaign Rashford earned his place in Tuchel’s 2026 England World Cup squad following a stellar campaign with Barcelona. He plundered 14 goals and as many assists across all competitions, helping the Blaugrana to retain their La Liga crown. Yet, Tuchel opted for Anthony Gordon during England’s opener against Croatia. Rashford came on from the bench and scored to secure a 4-2 victory for the Three Lions. Tuchel opted to keep faith with Gordon against Ghana, a decision that ultimately bore little fruit as the former Newcastle winger toiled. Rashford’s late introduction offered a glimmer of improvement, yet England could not find a way through as the game finished goalless. As if he had finally seen sense, Tuchel started Rashford in the Panama game, which England won 2-0, confirming their place in the Round of 32. Now, David Ornstein has confirmed that Rashford will be in the starting XI when England face DR Congo in Atlanta. Rashford call Ornstein writes for The Athletic, “Marcus Rashford will keep his place when England take on DR Congo in the World Cup round of 32 later today.” “The Manchester United forward started and impressed in the final group-stage game against Panama and remains in the starting XI chosen by Thomas Tuchel, preferred over Anthony Gordon.” “Noni Madueke also starts with Bukayo Saka continuing to manage his fitness. Arsenal team-mate Declan Rice returns to the side after sitting out Saturday’s match.” Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers was handed a start against Panama, but he is set to drop back down to the bench for the meeting with DR Congo. Tottenham Hotspur ace Djed Spence is also poised to start, with Reece James and Jarell Quansah ruled out through injury. Should England beat DR Congo, a tasty last-16 contest against Mexico at Estadio Azteca awaits them. Featured image Michael Steele via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!