Livramento Hails 'Unbelievable' Reece James as England Right-Back Scrap Heats Up

Picture this: England's right-back position is like that last pint at the pub – everyone's eyeing it up, but only one bloke can claim it. Tino Livramento, the Newcastle United lad who's been turning heads, isn't shy about the competition. While Reece James nurses a hamstring knock on the Chelsea sidelines, the 23-year-old Geordie is loving his chance to shine under new gaffer Thomas Tuchel.

Livramento's been called up for this month's internationals, and with James out, it's his moment to grab the headlines. That 1-1 draw with Uruguay? Perfect shop window for the full-back to show his defensive nous. No messing about – he's dead set on proving he's World Cup material.

Stepping into the Spotlight

Let's be fair, England's backline is stacked deeper than a kebab shop queue after closing time. You've got Trent Alexander-Arnold with his laser-guided crosses, Kyle Walker still bossing it at pace, and now Livramento throwing his hat in the ring. But with James sidelined – that pesky hamstring acting up again – the Newcastle man is making no bones about seizing the day.

"I've waited my turn plenty of times," he basically said, eyes firmly on the prize. The Uruguay friendly was his stage, and he didn't fluff his lines. Tuchel's watching, the World Cup's looming, and Livramento's whispering sweet nothings to the manager: 'Pick me, pick me!'

It's not just about defending either. The lad's got attacking flair that could light up the flanks. Newcastle fans know it – he's been a rock since joining from Southampton. Now, on the big stage, he's determined not to be a squad filler.

Class Act: Props to the Rival

Here's where Livramento wins the internet – or at least the changing room. Despite battling for the same shirt, he's full of praise for his Chelsea skipper. "Reece is an unbelievable player," he gushed. "I hope he comes back as soon as possible."

No bitterness, no sly digs. Just proper respect between pros. James has been plagued by injuries, missing chunks of seasons, but when fit, he's a one-man wrecking crew. Livramento gets it – you don't knock a rival who's that good; you just up your game.

It's this maturity that sets him apart. At 23, he's already talking like a veteran. Chelsea fans might grumble about James' fitness woes, but Livramento's reminder? The man's a baller when he's on the park.

World Cup Dreams and Fixtures Galore

The camp's buzzing with that extra edge – everyone's scrapping for a summer ticket to the World Cup. "There's more bite to these games," Livramento admitted. "Everyone wants to be on that plane. Nice to get the call-up, but better to play."

England wrap up this window with Japan at home on Tuesday. Then it's eyes on Group L: kick-off against Croatia on June 17, Ghana six days later, and Panama to close on June 27. Tuchel's got options, but Livramento's making a compelling case.

For Newcastle supporters, it's bittersweet – their star stepping up for the Three Lions means less club minutes, but who are we kidding? International duty's the dream. And if James returns firing, that'll only push Livramento harder.

So, as the right-back battle rages on, tip your cap to Livramento's class. He's not just gunning for a spot; he's doing it with a smile and a nod to the competition. England's summer could be spicy – pass the popcorn (or pies).

(Adapted from reporting by Goal.com)