Kyle Walker has been highlighted as England’s weak link by former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who claims he is “not a real defender”.

England have qualified for the last 16 of the World Cup after Group G victories against Tunisia and Panama. But, ahead of the final group game against Belgium and with tougher tests to come, Wenger believes Walker could be exposed by better opposition.

Walker has been moved from right-back to the right side of a back three by England manager Gareth Southgate and Wenger said: “He’s not a real defender, and especially not a central defender. He can be subject to defensive mistakes, which he would not pay for when he plays as a right-back.”

Wenger is not the first to question Walker’s change of position at this World Cup, as Rio Ferdinand described his positioning as “criminal” for the incident that resulted in Tunisia scoring a penalty in the opening Group G game.

Walker responded by saying: “It is a new position for me. Of course, I’m still learning.

“I’ve got great people next to me, especially the gaffer – who is coaching me and making sure he gives key tips in certain areas regarding what I need to do when I’m in that position.