Graeme Souness calls England midfield limited after loss

Former Scotland international and prominent football pundit Graeme Souness has launched a strong critique of England midfielders Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson, labeling them as "limited" following England's World Cup semifinal defeat to Argentina on Wednesday, July 15, 2026.

England's tournament ended in dramatic fashion in Atlanta, conceding two late goals to lose 2-1 after taking a lead against the reigning champions. In the aftermath, Souness focused his analysis on the team's central midfield partnership, which started every match under manager Thomas Tuchel.

Speaking on a sports program, Souness contrasted the English duo with Spain's Rodri, whom he described as "arguably the best in the world." He argued that Rice and Anderson lack the creative vision to "hurt" opponents. "I don't see enough football in the two of them. I see them as players who'll recycle the ball... but I don't see them hurting people," Souness said. He was particularly pointed in his assessment of the 27-year-old Rice, an Arsenal star who recently won the Premier League. "Declan won't get any better, he's looking as good as he'll get at 27... Declan Rice, for me, limited. You hear people talk about...