Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara believes Chelsea’s Noni Madueke could seriously threaten Bukayo Saka’s place in the England team.
Madueke, who had a mixed season last year under Mauricio Pochettino, has shown impressive performance in this campaign under Enzo Maresca, scoring four goals, including a hat trick against Wolves.
O’Hara is particularly eager to see how Madueke performs in the national team, especially with his potential debut on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.
He suggests that Madueke’s recent form could challenge Saka’s established position in the England squad despite Saka’s status as a critical player for the Three Lions in recent years.
“I’m looking forward to England’s next few games, especially to see how Lee Carsley sets up his team,” O’Hara told Grosvenor Sport.
“I’m particularly eager to see Noni Madueke play for the senior side. He’s stepped it up this season, and his direct style and ability to make things happen could make him a game-changer for England. He could even challenge Bukayo Saka for a starting spot!”
O’Hara also commented on other new faces in the England squad, such as Angel Gomes and Tino Livramento.
He is keen to see Gomes’ performance, having not seen much of him, and noted Livramento’s impressive start to the season with Newcastle, which has led to him replacing Kyle Walker, a long-time fixture in the England team.
As Lee Carsley takes charge of England for the first time, facing Ireland on Saturday and Finland on Tuesday, O’Hara remains sceptical about Carsley’s suitability for the role. He advocates for a more experienced manager, suggesting that the FA should consider candidates like Eddie Howe or Graham Potter.
O’Hara even mentioned the possibility of luring Pep Guardiola, citing the need for a top-tier manager to match the quality of England’s squad.
“I’m interested in seeing what Carsley does, but I believe England should aim for a bigger name in management,” O’Hara said.
“Eddie Howe and Graham Potter are proven at the highest level. Let us go all out and try for a manager who matches the calibre of our squad. Why not consider someone like Pep Guardiola?”
