Why Dan Burn is England’s substitute secret weapon when holding a lead at World Cup originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Dan Burn is on England’s squad for one reason.
When the Three Lions are leading a World Cup match late, Burn is a trusted substitute. They can bring him in, and he can clear the ball, again and again.
There’s no one in their side who is a better winner of the ball in the air than Burn.
He also uses his lanky frame to smash the ball away whenever he gets the chance.
So if England has a lead late against Argentina, or later in the tournament, Burn could sub into the game.
Why is Dan Burn a sub for England?
Burn, from Newcastle United, simply is a remarkable clearance master.
Against Mexico as a sub, he had six clearances in less than half of the second half. It was a World Cup record for clearances in that little bit of time.
I think Dan Burn could boot Messi out of the stadium pic.twitter.com/DmZSvkRjKz
— Grant (@Grantblocmates) July 14, 2026
England manager Thomas Tuchel knows he can trust Burn to close out a win.
It’s not a guarantee he gets on with every lead, but he’s a great option.
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