England boss Gareth Southgate has been criticised for not taking Chelsea right-back Reece James to the World Cup.

James failed to make the England World Cup squad following a frustrating injury he picked up a few weeks before the tournament.

James was convinced he will return to full fitness during the World Cup but Southgate was unwilling to take that chance.

Following Kieran Trippier’s performance against USA which saw him register zero tackles and interceptions, fans criticised Southgate for not taking James to the World Cup.

Franck Khalid: “England missed Reece James today!!! Would have made a difference!!!”

Kuzan: “Southgate not bringing Reece James even though he would have been fit is criminal. Trippier is stinking up the pitch.”

ManLikeFrey: “Really wish Reece James was here in Qatar, we would’ve cooked properly”

Nick: “Find it baffling Southgate wouldn’t take a chance on Reece James’ fitness when we were struggling with full backs but happy to take Maddison, who is clearly injured, and won’t play a single minute.”

Romansburner: “Southgate is an idiot for not taking a punt on Reece James, him at 50% is better than whatever England have rn”

Shanki: “Reece James is the only England player who’d have dealt well with Christian Pulisic.”

Zino: “An injured Reece James is better than any and every footballer on that pitch and he’s sitting at home watching the game.”