Thomas Tuchel explains England changes for Ghana match and raises concern over Boston pitch

Thomas Tuchel has made two changes to his England team for their World Cup clash with Ghana, bringing in Marc Guehi and Djed Spence for John Stones and Nico O’Reilly.

Tuchel explained to the BBC that he chose Guehi and Spence to add a “little bit more speed” to the backline, and said that Guehi is a “little more agile” than Stones while also being used to playing on the left-hand side of the centre-back partnership.

Tuchel also noted how Ghana are likely to try to counter-attack at pace, but hopes Guehi and Spence can handle this with their own speed.

The England boss also raised a concern over the Boston Stadium pitch, claiming he had heard the “grass is a bit long”, but stated that the rain in Boston could ensure this is only a small issue.

England have drawn their second game at their last three major tournaments, and Tuchel acknowledged it is important to back up last week’s win over Croatia with another victory.