Craig Burley believes Mason Mount will find it extremely difficult to start another game at the World Cup.
Speaking on ESPN, Burley suggested that the Chelsea player may have already made Gareth Southgate’s XI out in Qatar for the last time.
Mount was in the 11 for England’s first two group matches, impressing against Iran but frustrating in the 0-0 draw with USA.
Many called for the 23-year-old to be dropped in favour of Phil Foden for the final fixture versus Wales.
Southgate duly answered by starting Foden ahead of his fellow talented compatriot.
England completely wiped Wales to one side, with Foden scoring and staring in the 3-0 victory.
Mason Mount now a World Cup worry
Understandably, the Three Lions boss only made one change to the team that wounded the Welsh for yesterday’s knockout showdown with Senegal.
Bukayo Saka returned in place of Marcus Rashford, who will have felt hard done by not to retain his place after scoring twice in the previous fixture.
Yet, Southgate’s decisions were justified again.
Saka sealed England’s 3-0 victory just before the hour mark thanks to Foden’s assist, the Manchester City forward having already set-up Harry Kane.
Mount came off the bench for the final quarter of an hour with the tie well and truly finished.
Chelsea’s academy graduate is now unlikely to displace his nation’s winning formula heading into Saturday’s mighty quarter-final contest with France.
“Mason Mount, I don’t think it was a big surprise that Mason Mount didn’t start today,” admitted Burley.
“Fine player but hasn’t had a fine tournament. Is it a huge debate his (Southgate) starting XI?”
If not Mason Mount, then who?
Based on the performances of those who have featured at the World Cup, Mount may find it hard to argue against his place as a substitute.
Foden has pretty much played his way into the XI, whilst Saka can do no wrong at the moment.
Jordan Henderson also stepped up as part of the midfield trio, his experience complimenting the youthful energy of Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham.
Only an injury to a starter will realistically throw Mason back into the spotlight.