Ranking England's Left-Back Battle: Who Deserves the Starting Spot?
During Gareth Southgate's tenure, England had an abundance of right-back talent, but the left flank proved problematic—with Luke Shaw and Ben Chilwell serving as the primary options, though both were regularly hampered by fitness issues.
Fortunately, a new era appears to be emerging alongside Thomas Tuchel's appointment. The persistent disparity favoring right-backs is beginning to balance out, as an emerging generation of English left-backs steps forward, eager to establish themselves.
Combined with Tuchel's preference for wing-back formations, there's now a compelling blend of skill, youth, and adaptability competing for positions along the left wing.
Here, Sports Illustrated evaluates Tuchel's top current left-back (and left wing-back) candidates for England.
8. Ben Chilwell
Theoretically, Ben Chilwell appears unlikely to secure an England position – having moved from Chelsea to Strasbourg, battling persistent injuries, and lacking consistent playing time.
However, regarding ability, dismissing him entirely proves difficult. Despite limited opportunities to demonstrate his worth recently—even a loan stint at Crystal Palace offered little benefit—he remains a player of unquestionable skill.
Chilwell's previous experience with Tuchel, having featured at left-back during Chelsea's 2020–21 Champions League victory, provides an interesting element. Should he secure regular minutes and maintain fitness, he could emerge as an unexpected candidate for England selection.
7. Keane Lewis-Potter
Initially recruited as a winger by Brentford, Keane Lewis-Potter was repositioned to left-back during the 2024–25 campaign by then-manager Thomas Frank—and he flourished remarkably. He managed some of the Premier League's finest attacking players with confidence, demonstrating strong defensive intelligence while maintaining his ability to advance and express his natural offensive flair.
An unexpected candidate certainly, but one who could prove to be a valuable addition—particularly within a three or five-defender formation.
6. Luke Shaw
Luke Shaw's ability has never been questioned, but injuries have consistently hindered his progress.
When healthy and performing at his peak, Shaw was potentially England's finest left-back under Southgate – even securing his place in English football folklore by becoming the first player since Sir Geoff Hurst to find the net for England in a major final, scoring at Euro 2020.
Regrettably, fitness problems have persisted for the Manchester United defender, and with advancing years plus increasing competition, Shaw's international career appears to be nearing its conclusion.
5. Djed Spence
Recently, Djed Spence wouldn't have featured in this discussion. However, throughout the latter portion of the 2024–25 season, he became a key performer for Tottenham, thriving at left-back (and occasionally right-back). Spence demonstrated his versatility as a complete player—defensively reliable against elite attackers, while providing genuine quality and calmness in possession when advancing.
Though unfortunate to be omitted from Tuchel's early England selections, should he maintain this upward trend, he'll undoubtedly become a consistent choice under the new management.
4. Tyrick Mitchell
Previously, Tyrick Mitchell was steadily progressing at left-back, having already secured England appearances. The Crystal Palace defender offers a balanced approach along the left side and has maintained reliability for the Eagles.
However, during the past year, Mitchell has elevated his performance significantly—excelling in both attacking and defensive phases. His contributions were vital in Palace achieving a record Premier League points tally in 2024–25, securing a memorable FA Cup triumph, and claiming the Community Shield against Liverpool.
Should Tuchel implement a wing-back system, Mitchell's recent displays and positional experience could make him an attractive choice.
3. Lewis Hall
Lewis Hall has steadily developed into one of the Premier League's top natural left-backs following his transfer from Chelsea to Newcastle United.
An enthusiastic attacking presence, he regularly advances down the flank, providing accurate crosses and possessing a strong shot that keeps defenders vigilant in attacking areas.
Yet Hall isn't limited to one aspect—he's resilient and committed defensively, having already demonstrated his capability by containing elite talents like Bukayo Saka in individual duels. His development as a determined tackler continues to stand out.
Despite injury ending his 2024–25 campaign in March, Hall has become one of England's exciting left-back prospects since earning his international debut.
2. Myles Lewis-Skelly
Arsenal fans demanded more Hale End representation in Mikel Arteta's first team, but the Spanish manager only provides chances to players he considers ready.
While attention focused on Ethan Nwaneri's rapid emergence at the Emirates, Lewis-Skelly has been equally outstanding while adapting to an unfamiliar position. The youngster excelled in midfield at youth levels, but has been predominantly deployed as a left-back under Arteta.
His physical development exceeds typical teenage standards, enabling him to absorb contact effortlessly and compete physically with the most challenging Premier League adversaries. Despite occasional disciplinary issues, Lewis-Skelly has proven exceptional.
1. Tino Livramento
When Lewis Hall's campaign ended prematurely through injury, Tino Livramento assumed responsibility, transitioning from his preferred right-back position to cover left-back—and many believe he surpassed Hall's performances.
Proficient with either foot and assured when cutting inward in attacking zones, Livramento appeared entirely natural in the role. His smooth transition clearly demonstrates his talent and explains why he deserves serious consideration as England's starter on that flank.
As former Newcastle defender John Anderson observed: "Since moving to left-back, he's appeared like someone who has occupied that position throughout his career. He's been outstanding at left-back."