Guehi Gets Green Light: Tuchel's Defensive Anchor Ready for Norway Battle

Thomas Tuchel has received a timely boost ahead of tonight's World Cup quarter final with Norway. Marc Guehi, whose fitness had been a source of considerable anxiety within the England camp, is expected to start at the heart of the defence. This news will settle some nerves, for both the manager and the travelling support, because Guehi's composure on the ball and reading of the game have become integral to England's structure.The worry, of course, is that a player carrying a knock going into a high intensity knockout tie is always a gamble. Norway will look to test his sharpness early, forcing him to twist and turn in transitions. If Guehi shows even a fraction of hesitation, you can bet Erling Haaland will scent blood. But Tuchel is a pragmatist. He knows that dropping his first choice centre half for a player who hasn't had the same rhythm would be a bigger risk. So the German has rolled the dice, backing his man to manage the minutes.Reece James, however, remains sidelined. That is a blow. James offers not just defensive solidity but a genuine attacking outlet from deep, and his absence will force Tuchel to rethink his approach down the right flank. Expect England to lean more heavily on the left side, using width to stretch a Norwegian low block that has looked stubborn but not impenetrable. The key for England will be patience. They cannot afford to get caught in a frantic, end to end scrap. That plays straight into Norway's transitional strengths.Tonight is squeaky bum time for England. The prize is a semi final spot, but the path goes through a Norwegian side that has grown in belief. Guehi's presence should stiffen the spine. Whether his body holds up for 90 minutes of relentless pressure is another matter. One thing is certain: Tuchel has made his call. Now it is down to the players to deliver.Can Guehi prove his fitness with a commanding display Or will this decision haunt England We are about to find out.