Stones struggles in England's 4-2 win over Croatia as Guehi waits in the wings

John Stones endured a difficult World Cup debut under Thomas Tuchel as England edged Croatia 4-2 in Dallas, with the Manchester City centre-back visibly struggling for sharpness after limited club minutes this season.

Stones, who has been largely displaced at City by Marc Guehi since the Crystal Palace defender’s January move, was selected ahead of his international rival at the heart of England’s defence. Partnered by Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa, Stones was exposed on several occasions as Croatia twice levelled before England eventually pulled clear.

Tuchel was quick to spread the blame beyond Stones alone, pointing to the punishing conditions inside the Dallas stadium. “Some players suffered because it was quite hot and humid and the game was very intense,” the England head coach said. “I think he had cramps in both legs in the end because it was intense. John was just like everyone else — everyone was very tired in the dressing-room, which I like because then you know that you did something.”

Tuchel also reflected on the character his side showed in recovering from two separate equalisers. “Overcoming the tough moments, stick together — you get punished, but you have a reaction, twice. It was a difficult moment to concede for 2-2, but again we came, we got the third lead and then finally we could finish the game because we created a lot.”

Guehi, introduced late in the second half, offered a timely reminder of his quality in the brief time he was on the pitch and is now considered a strong candidate to start England’s second group game against Ghana in Boston on Tuesday.

Declan Rice finished the match with a sore back but is expected to be fit to face Ghana. Harry Kane, who had strapping on one leg, insisted he felt in good shape after the final whistle.

With Tuchel known for withholding his team selection until the morning of each match, both Stones and Guehi face an anxious wait to learn their fate — a dynamic that reflects a broader competition for places that will define England’s defensive shape throughout the tournament.