Credit: Imago
Credit: Imago
Match

England have just done something for the first time in 33 years against Wales

Tom Griffin
Tom Griffin

Tom graduated with a BA Hons English Language degree from the University of Hull in 2020. He spent years as a freelance football journalist before holding positions as a content writer at SportsBroker and a digital football journalist at GRV Media. He joined Breaking Media in August 2025 as an assistant editor, writing and editing content for the company's club sites and leading the feature content for Football Insider.

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England return to action against Wales in an international friendly, and they've already broken a 33-year record ahead of the clash.

The Three Lions continue their preparations ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America, with Thomas Tuchel already making some questionable decisions.

Adam Wharton was left out of the England squad, despite his impressive form for Crystal Palace, while Harry Kane missed out on the lineup with an injury.

Interestingly, the German manager has already broken a record that has stood for 33 years with one call he's made.

Thomas Tuchel with his hands in his pockets at England training
(Credit Imago)

England's lineup vs Wales doesn't feature Man United, Chelsea or Liverpool players

When the Three Lions name a starting lineup, there is usually representation from the Premier League's big six clubs.

However, Opta have confirmed that this is the first time since June 1992 that an England starting lineup hasn't featured a player from Chelsea, Man United or Liverpool.

Considering that trio of clubs are synonymous with hosting some of the best English talent, it is crazy that this record has been broken.

After breaking some history, Tuchel's men will be hoping that his side can extend their winning run to eight matches against Wales.

Thomas Tuchel emphasising the importance of 'team'

Last time out, England's win over Serbia saw them extend their lead at the top of Group K to seven points, with the Three Lions needing a win against Latvia to guarantee their place at the World Cup.

Jack Grealish Man City in black training top looking focused
(Credit: Imago)

Although Tuchel has received some criticism for his selection, including his decision to leave Grealish out of the England squad, the German wants to pick a 'team' rather than focus on individuals.

"We can only make it happen [a World Cup win] if we arrive with a strong, strong team," Tuchel said via Sky Sports.

"I just watched a documentary on the New England Patriots and saw a quote there: 'We don't collect the most talented players, we build a team'. I cannot agree more. That's what we're trying to do.

"We decided to stick mostly with the team that had a brilliant camp last time. Already we have some injuries, we cannot play with the same XI against Serbia, because four players are already missing. It's natural we have changes."

England have often relied on individuals in tournaments to drag them through games, but it's ultimately a team effort that will be crucial to achieving glory in 2026.

England
Thomas Tuchel
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