England’s preparations for October’s internationals have taken an unexpected twist, with Manchester City youngster Nico O’Reilly handed his maiden senior call-up after Reece James pulled out through injury.
The Chelsea right-back, who has endured more than his fair share of setbacks over the years, was forced off after a nasty clash during the Blues’ weekend win over Liverpool. A gash to his shin, which James later revealed on Instagram, proved bad enough to rule him out following medical checks — a bitter blow for both player and manager Thomas Tuchel.
From City’s academy to England’s seniors
Into the breach steps O’Reilly, a player City fans have watched grow through their academy since the age of eight. Interestingly, while he’s listed as a defender, O’Reilly is hardly a conventional one. Pep Guardiola has gradually transformed him from an attack-minded No.10 into a dynamic left-back, and it’s that versatility that now sees him parachuted into England’s senior squad.
At just 20 years old, O’Reilly has already clocked up 21 appearances and five goals for City last season, while also earning a place in Guardiola’s squad for the Club World Cup. This campaign, he’s featured nine times and has been trusted in high-profile games — evidence of Guardiola’s faith in his adaptability and work rate.
Tuchel’s tactical dilemma
England face Wales on October 9 and Latvia on October 14, but James’ absence leaves Tuchel worryingly short at right-back. Djed Spence is now the only specialist in that position, though ironically he was first called up last month as cover on the other side of defence.
That’s why O’Reilly’s inclusion makes sense. At well over six feet tall and blessed with pace and stamina, he offers the kind of physical presence Tuchel has repeatedly highlighted as vital to competing at international level. Whether he features as an emergency right-back or slots in where he’s more comfortable remains to be seen — but his versatility could prove priceless.
A rising star with unfinished business
For O’Reilly, this is more than just an opportunity — it’s a personal vindication. He’s represented England at every level from U15 to U20, though injury robbed him of his first U21 chance last month. Now, fate has opened an even bigger door.
He still describes himself as a midfielder at heart, yet being called up in place of Reece James shows the national setup now views him firmly as part of England’s defensive future.
One question lingers though: is this a short-term fix born out of necessity, or the start of O’Reilly cementing himself as England’s next great full-back?
Related Posts:
Leave a Reply