Wayne Rooney tells Thomas Tuchel he should have called up retired England star after DR Congo win

England overcame a stubborn DR Congo in the World Cup round of 32 with a 2-1 victory; however, the performance worried fans and pundits, leading to Wayne Rooney suggesting Thomas Tuchel should have brought a retired star to the competition.

While it may have been a historic victory for England, as they managed to bring to an end an unwanted 60-year record.

A brace from Harry Kane in the final 15 minutes of the match was enough to overturn the one-goal deficit they faced at halftime after Brian Cipenga opened the scoring in the seventh minute for the African nation.

This late breakthrough for the English brought about some serious questions about Tuchel’s team selection, with fans suggesting he needs to make three alterations.

While he can make these changes to his team, Rooney believes the German may be regretting not bringing a retired England star to the tournament.

The former Manchester United legend believes Tuchel should have included Kyle Walker in his squad that is looking to win its first World Cup in 60 years.

There appears to be an injury crisis at right back for the Three Lions, as Reece James and Tino Livramento are unavailable for selection.

Rooney believes that Tuchel should have brought Walker to the tournament to replace the injured Newcastle star and provide cover, even though both Djed Spence and Jarell Quansah can operate in this position.

Speaking on the BBC, he said: “"We've seen it before. It's happened before where players come out of retirement.

"I think the minute Livramento got injured, I think he should have been right on the phone to Kyle Walker.

“Kyle is still more than good enough and more than capable of playing in this England team.

Should Thomas Tuchel have called up Kyle Walker after Tino Livramento's injury?

Wayne Rooney thinks so! pic.twitter.com/RI4Bsxw3gq

— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) July 1, 2026

"I would have been on the phone to him saying, 'Listen, we need you here. Can you come out and help us?'

"That could really cost us [the right-back area]. I'm worried on that."

The Burnley defender, who won 96 caps for England, only retired from international duty in March, concluding a 14-year career.

Rooney believes Walker would have been perfectly capable of being a useful member of this England squad after his performances for Burnley in the Premier League this season; however, many fans may be questioning why Trent Alexander-Arnold was left at home.

The Real Madrid right back may have endured a tough first season in Spain, but he would have been a useful option for Tuchel due to his ability on the ball and the fact he does not have as long a history with injuries compared to the options brought to the tournament.