
Thomas Tuchel, in his inaugural role as England’s head coach, has unveiled a 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia at Wembley Stadium. This selection reflects a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talents, signaling Tuchel’s strategic approach to these crucial fixtures.
Notable Inclusions:
- Marcus Rashford (Aston Villa, on loan from Manchester United): After a period of absence from the national team, Rashford earns a recall. His resurgence at Aston Villa, where he has contributed four assists in nine appearances, has not gone unnoticed. citeturn0search0
- Jordan Henderson (Ajax): The former Liverpool captain returns to the squad after a hiatus since November 2023. Now plying his trade with Ajax, Henderson’s leadership and experience are seen as valuable assets by Tuchel. citeturn0search0
- Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal): At just 18, Lewis-Skelly receives his first senior call-up. Initially a central midfielder, he has adapted impressively to a left-back role this season, showcasing versatility that Tuchel evidently values. citeturn0search0
- Dan Burn (Newcastle United): The 6’7″ defender earns his maiden England call-up at 32, highlighting his consistent performances and resilience throughout his career. citeturn0search0
Injury Absentees and Omissions:
- Harry Maguire (Manchester United): The central defender misses out due to injury concerns, creating opportunities for other center-backs to stake their claim. citeturn0search1
- Jack Grealish (Manchester City): Despite his creative flair, Grealish has been omitted, possibly due to limited playing time this season. citeturn0search1
- Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool): The dynamic right-back is unavailable because of injury, prompting Tuchel to explore alternative options in the defensive flanks. citeturn0search0
- Bukayo Saka (Arsenal): The versatile winger’s injury sidelines him for these qualifiers, a significant loss given his recent form. citeturn0search0
- Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa): Despite his club form, Watkins is a notable omission, possibly due to tactical preferences or minor fitness issues. citeturn0search0
Potential Starting Lineup:
Considering Tuchel’s tactical inclinations and the available squad, a plausible starting XI could be:
- Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford (Everton)
- Defenders:
- Reece James (Chelsea) – Right-back
- Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa) – Center-back
- Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace) – Center-back
- Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal) – Left-back
- Midfielders:
- Declan Rice (Arsenal) – Defensive midfield
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) – Central midfield
- Jordan Henderson (Ajax) – Central midfield
- Forwards:
- Phil Foden (Manchester City) – Right wing
- Marcus Rashford (Aston Villa) – Left wing
- Harry Kane (Bayern Munich) – Striker
Squad Overview:
- Goalkeepers:
- Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace)
- Jordan Pickford (Everton)
- Aaron Ramsdale (Southampton)
- James Trafford (Burnley)
- Defenders:
- Dan Burn (Newcastle United)
- Levi Colwill (Chelsea)
- Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace)
- Reece James (Chelsea)
- Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa)
- Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal)
- Tino Livramento (Newcastle United)
- Jarell Quansah (Liverpool)
- Kyle Walker (AC Milan, on loan from Manchester City)
- Midfielders:
- Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
- Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace)
- Jordan Henderson (Ajax)
- Curtis Jones (Liverpool)
- Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
- Declan Rice (Arsenal)
- Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
- Forwards:
- Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United)
- Phil Foden (Manchester City)
- Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United)
- Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)
- Marcus Rashford (Aston Villa, on loan from Manchester United)
- Dominic Solanke (Tottenham Hotspur)
Tuchel’s selection underscores his commitment to integrating seasoned professionals with promising youth, aiming to build a cohesive unit capable of securing vital victories in the World Cup
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