KYLE WALKER has given his verdict on England’s starting right-back after announcing his retirement from the national team.
The former and man announced he was stepping down from international duties on Tuesday.
Kyle Walker has named his choice for England’s starting right-backCredit: The Overlap
Reece James is viewed by some as the successor to Walker, but faces stiff competitionCredit: Getty
The decision rounded off a 14-year career with his country, for whom he made 96 appearances.
But his stepping back again raises the question of who will emerge as England‘s first-choice right back for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Walker held the role for years, but his decline in recent seasons has led to a fierce contest between the likes of , and newer additions like Tino Livramento.
But while recognising the attributes of all the nation’s depth options, Walker has his pick lined up for the role.
was speaking on The Overlap, brought to you by Sky Bet , when he revealed one man’s versatility puts him just above the pack.
He said: “I think it’d be unfair for me to say completely because Trent [Alexander-Arnold] has been to a couple of tournaments now and has been pushing me all the way.
“Djed [Spence] and Tino [Livramento] have been incredible. Tino has done fantastically well and obviously, down to injuries, he’s probably not hit the peak that he wants to in this season, but I think there’s enough cover.
“For Reece, I think he’s probably the complete right back that I would say yeah.”
Trent Alexander-Arnold has fallen down the pecking order since moving to Real MadridCredit: Getty
James has made 22 appearances for , and is enjoying a stellar season with as he cements himself as one of the Premier League’s best in his position.
Alexander-Arnold has struggled to find form since making the switch from to at the end of the 2024/25 season.
The star has endured a number of serious injuries, but has impressed in spells between knocks.
Another player hampered by injuries is depth candidate Livramento.
The man has suffered knee and hamstring injuries that have left him unable to challenge former England man and youth prospect Lewis Miley for minutes.
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Eze Chidiebere Paul
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