Viv Anderson backs Reece James and Tino Livramento, would 'discard' Trent

England head into the 2026 World Cup cycle with a wealth of right-back options, and former Three Lions full-back Viv Anderson — who became England’s first black international in 1978 — has named who he would favour and who he would leave out. On his preferred choices Anderson said: "I like Reece James, I must admit.

He’s another one that can play several positions - he can play in midfield. You talk about a squad to go to the World Cup and if I had the choice I would probably take him." He added he also liked Livramento as "young, up and coming, very athletic," and of Trent Alexander-Arnold observed: "Trent has had a funny old season, he has been in and out of the Real Madrid side and doesn’t play consistently.

I would discard him." Those views add to the difficult calls facing Thomas Tuchel, who still has two friendlies against Uruguay and Japan in March before 26 places on the plane to North America are handed out. Other right-back contenders include Djed Spence and Kyle Walker.

England, North America

viv anderson, reece james, tino livramento, alexander-arnold, england, world cup, right-back, thomas tuchel, djed spence, kyle walker