England vs Croatia Preview: Tuchel's World Cup Gamble, Journalist Leaks & Maguire FaceTime Drama

Straight from Thomas Tuchel's pre-match press conference from the spectacular AT&T Stadium in Texas, The Mirror’s Chief Football Writer John Cross joins host Harry Brann to preview England’s massive World Cup opening clash against Croatia. In this episode, John and Harry break down the massive bombshell out of the England camp: Tino Livramento’s tournament-ending injury and Thomas Tuchel's surprise decision to call up Trevoh Chalobah straight from his American vacation. They dive into the internet-breaking FaceTime drama surrounding Harry Maguire’s exclusion, debate the tactical headache on the right wing between Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke, and share some wild behind-the-scenes stories from the team hotel—including how the squad handled a midnight Texas tornado warning. Plus, John gives his honest verdict on where England ranks against heavyweights like France and Spain, and defends the controversial role of football journalists in leaking team lineups ahead of matchday. Timestamps 01:33 – The Livramento Bombshell & Chalobah Call-Up: Breaking down the injury gamble that backfired, why Trevoh Chalobah was called up from his holiday, and the looming Trent Alexander-Arnold question. 03:56 – The Maguire FaceTime Drama: A look at the viral social media fallout from Harry Maguire being dropped via video call and whether the defender’s reaction was justified. 05:54 – Predicting England's Starting XI: John reveals his predicted lineup, analyzing the 50/50 toss-up between Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke, Anthony Gordon’s defensive work rate, and the centre-back pairing. 08:19 – Inside the Camp: Tornadoes & "Robberies": John laughs off reported camp security issues and recounts the chaos of mid-tournament Texas tornado sirens sending hotel guests into underground garages. 10:30 – Tournament Favorites & Where England Ranks: First-week highlights from the US-hosted tournament and why England sits firmly in the "second tier" behind France, Spain, and Argentina. 13:34 – The Great Lineup Leak Debate: John addresses the criticism aimed at journalists who leak team sheets early and explains why the public always craves inside information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices