Noni Madueke stepped out onto the pitch as a World Cup starter for England against Croatia — a moment that would have seemed improbable just 12 months ago, when his move to Arsenal from Chelsea sparked a fan petition bearing the hashtag #NoToMadueke.

The £50 million signing faced fierce resistance from supporters upon his arrival at the Gunners last summer. Now 24, Madueke has answered his critics in the most emphatic way possible: winning the Premier League with Arsenal — their first title in 22 years — and earning a place in Thomas Tuchel's starting eleven at the World Cup.

A key figure in England's opening win

Madueke was one of England's most effective players in their 4-2 victory over Croatia, operating on the right wing and making a decisive contribution. He won the penalty that Harry Kane converted to give the Three Lions the lead, recorded five touches inside the opposition box, completed his only dribble attempt, and delivered four passes to Kane — the joint-highest in the team alongside goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

Anthony Gordon started on the opposite flank, and their combined energy on the wings gave Tuchel's side real width and purpose going forward.

Tuchel's system and Madueke's role