What speaker for being close to rear wall?

Linn speakers are--or at least used to be--designed for near wall use.

At least some of Rega's speakers can apparently be used close to the wall.

My understanding is that wall creates a boost in bass frequencies, which is probably why speakers like the original Linn Kan had amazing bass for the size. Thus, the overall design of the speaker has to take this boost into account.

"English speakers also generally seem to get mentioned a lot."

I've noticed that, too. My speculation is that it reflects England, where living rooms are said to be smaller. (Easier to fit speakers in if they go close to a wall.) Plus I imagine it's less common over there to have dedicated listening rooms.