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Thomas Tuchel has made notable adjustments to his defensive setup ahead of England’s World Cup 2026 clash with Ghana, introducing two changes to the starting eleven.

The first alteration, which comes as little surprise, sees John Stones omitted from the England starting line-up. His Manchester City teammate, Marc Guehi, has been brought in to take his place at the back.

Stones has had limited game time this season, leaving him short of the match fitness required to start consecutive fixtures within a week. Tuchel explained that Guehi’s “agility” was a key factor behind the decision to include him in the side.

In a more unexpected move, Tuchel has decided to withdraw Nico O'Reilly from the starting line-up, handing Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence a starting spot instead.

Spence’s inclusion comes on the back of his impressive cameo against Croatia last week, where he displayed blistering pace and a strong attacking intent that posed a threat to the opposition defence.

This switch appears to be more of Spence earning his place through performance rather than O'Reilly losing his spot due to poor form.

Outside of these two changes, the remainder of the England team remains consistent with the side that began their World Cup 2026 opener against Croatia.

Jordan Pickford retains his position in goal, while Reece James and Ezri Konsa line up alongside Guehi and Spence in defence.

In midfield, the trio of Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, and Jude Bellingham will anchor play behind an attacking front three consisting of Noni Madueke and Anthony Gordon on the wings, with captain Harry Kane leading the line through the centre.