Thomas Tuchel's first start for Trent Alexander-Arnold under him ended with an assist, a clean England win and a stronger case for more minutes. England beat Czech Republic 2-0 in Prague, and Alexander-Arnold made his first England start since October 2024. Two minutes into the second half, he whipped a right-footed cross that bypassed three defenders and found Anthony Gordon for the opening goal.

Tuchel's assessment of the right-back role

Thomas Tuchel did not hide what he liked most. Speaking after the match to goal.com, he said: "He did very well. He had an excellent assist. Overall, like everyone, he was professional, top attitude and one decisive action." He also added that "the deeper position in the second half suited him more than the higher position in the first half." That fits the way the game opened up after Pavel Sulc was sent off in the 25th minute for a serious foul on Elliot Anderson.

The full 90 minutes also mattered. Alexander-Arnold completed the match, made 74 passes and produced 3 key passes, so this was not just one crossing moment at the far post. It was a steady, involved performance from the Real Madrid defender, and Tuchel's praise followed the display rather than running ahead of it.

What the return changes for England

The selection picture is still fluid. Tuchel said Alexander-Arnold was the ninth different right-back he had used in 24 games, which tells you how open the spot remains. Alexander-Arnold's response was plain enough. "It was amazing, It's always an honour to represent my country; it's been a long time, but I've always believed I can play for England," he said, quoted by goal.com.

He will hope to feature again, but the immediate point is simpler. A player who had not started for England since October 2024 came back into the side, delivered the cross for the opener and left with Tuchel talking about his role in the second half rather than his absence. If England keep using him, the deeper position looks the one that best brings his passing into the game.

Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 4 outlets. How we work →