Joleon Lescott has given an interesting verdict on Tyrick Mitchell and why the Crystal Palace left wing-back isn’t in contention to go to the World Cup. The Eagles star has been constantly overlooked by England over the years.
Mitchell is preparing for his first-ever European semi-final tonight (April 30th) when Palace face Shakhtar Donetsk in Krakow, Poland. He recently reached 200 appearances for the club and has long been considered one of the most consistent players at Selhurst Park.
The 26-year-old has made 47 appearances across competitions this season, posting three goals and as many assists. He’s a mainstay in Oliver Glasner’s team but he only has two caps with England to his name.
Lescott on ‘Consistent’ Mitchell
Mitchell’s fine form has earned plaudits during the second half of the season. But Lescott feels he hasn’t maintained the level of performance throughout the course of the campaign.
Speaking ahead of Palace’s clash with Shakhtar, the former Manchester City defender said on TNT Sports:
“If he had replicated the form he’s been in in the last 2-3 months at the start of the season I think we’d potentially be talking about him going to the World Cup.”
Lescott added:
“He’s very consistent, and there aren’t many full-backs that are as comfortable defending or enjoy defending as much as going forward. I think first and foremost he’s a defender and now he’s developed a level of confidence and belief in his ability going forward.”
Thomas Tuchel looks likely to favour Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall and Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly as his two left-back options for this summer’s tournament. But it’s not just the German coach who have snubbed Mitchell.
Mitchell’s International Snub
Gareth Southgate opted to take an injury-prone Luke Shaw to the 2024 European Championships and used Kieran Trippier as a makeshift left-back. That’s despite Mitchell putting in excellent performances during the 2023-24 campaign.
Whether Mitchell has a chance to make a surprise last-minute push for a World Cup spot seems unlikely. He wasn’t named in England’s squad for March’s international break and his last appearance for the Three Lions came back in March 2022.
Palace have benefited somewhat from Mitchell’s lack of appreciation by his national team. His availability has been a massive plus, and there’s been no fear over him picking up an injury while on international duty.
