Tuchel set to hand Rogers surprise start against Argentina

England head coach Thomas Tuchel is believed to be preparing a bold tactical switch for the World Cup semi-final against Argentina. Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rogers is expected to start on the right wing, a position he rarely occupies for club or country. The 23 year old normally operates from the left or through the middle, but his impressive cameo off the bench against Norway in the previous round appears to have earned him a place in the starting eleven.

Rogers has been a consistent performer throughout Tuchel's tenure, both for Villa and the England squad. His energy, dribbling and willingness to run at defenders have caught the German coach's eye, and this selection is seen as a reward for his impact in training and in limited game time. The decision also comes with a practical need: Noni Madueke has struggled to impose himself at the tournament, while Bukayo Saka is not fully fit following a minor complaint. Tuchel clearly feels the right side needs fresh impetus against the tournament favourites.

Argentina arrive as the reigning world champions and have looked formidable, not least because of Lionel Messi's extraordinary form. For England, the semi-final represents their biggest match since the 1966 final - they have not reached the showpiece match since their solitary triumph six decades ago. Much will depend on Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, but a dynamic runner like Rogers could unsettle an experienced Argentine backline.

Rogers' opportunity to shine on the biggest stage

The Villa forward has been rapid in transition and comfortable in tight spaces all year, attributes that could prove vital against a well-drilled Argentina side. Starting on the right will demand defensive discipline too, as Argentina's left back often overlaps to support attackers. Tuchel will expect Rogers to track back and protect his full back while still offering the surges that make him dangerous in the final third.

This is a semi-final that has gripped the nation. For all the talk of Messi's brilliance, England have their own trump cards in the form of Kane's lethal finishing and Bellingham's midfield authority. If Rogers can replicate his impact from the bench, he might just become the unlikely hero of the evening. The World Cup stage waits for no one, and Tuchel has shown he trusts the young forward to deliver under the highest pressure.

Kick off at the stadium is expected to deliver a cauldron of noise, with both sets of supporters knowing a place in the final is at stake. England's team selection suggests a manager who is not afraid to make brave calls. For Rogers, it is the chance to turn a promising career into a legendary story.