Alex Scott puts pressure on Declan Rice as Thomas Tuchel demands more from England

Thomas Tuchel believes Alex Scott has given Declan Rice genuine competition for an England midfield place after an impressive first international start in the 7-0 win over Croatia.

Scott stepped into midfield alongside Elliot Anderson after Rice withdrew from the squad for the UEFA Nations League clash. The Bournemouth midfielder helped England control the game as they dominated experienced Croatia pair Luka Modric and Mateo Kovacic.

Tuchel welcomed the competition and admitted Rice cannot expect his place to be guaranteed.

"Of course, and he does, we need performances like this," Tuchel said when asked whether Rice should be concerned about his position.

"This is just the nature of it. We will not survive on two central midfielders."

Tuchel was quick to stress that Rice remains a key player for England, but believes the team needs greater depth and more options in midfield.

"Declan knows about his importance, and he's one of the very best midfielders in Europe," he said.

"Nothing will change that. But it's exactly what we need. We need more, more, more variety. We need more options. Then it's always about the guys who are in camp. Alex was at the highest level."

Scott's performance has strengthened England's midfield options ahead of their next Nations League match against the Czech Republic at Wembley on Tuesday.

England are second in their group behind World Cup holders Spain and will be looking to build on their emphatic victory over Croatia.