Five players Thomas Tuchel completely forgot about for an England call-up
Thomas Tuchel has left some major names out of his latest squad as England make final preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
Matt Le Tissier has already suggested Harvey Barnes as a surprise call-up due to the winger’s form at Newcastle United, especially with the Three Lions’ boss supposedly choosing on form each time.
Following their previous win over Latvia, World Cup qualification has already been sealed, so the final two games against Serbia and Albania will be for the head coach to put his finishing touches on the squad.
It remains uncertain exactly what Tuchel’s starting lineup will look like when the Three Lions kick off their World Cup campaign next year, but these five players can feel hard done by not being involved this time.
Tyrick Mitchell
Tyrick Mitchell has been in sensational form for Crystal Palace, combining with Daniel Munoz on the opposite flank to provide a base for the Eagles to build their attack off.
The left-back position is always seen as lacking in depth, with Tuchel having to come up with new experiments to fill the spot, all while refusing to regularly call up a natural fit.
Nico O’Reilly has recently been given an opportunity, thanks to his sudden rise to fame at Man City, but Mitchell would add far more defensive stability than the youngster. Yet, he remains on two caps.
James Tarkowski
A rogue shout, I know. However, James Tarkowski has been a centre-piece in Everton’s defence for the last few seasons. Whether it’s been alongside Michael Keane or Jarrad Branthwaite, he has been outstanding.
At 32 years of age, it is extremely unlikely that Tuchel would even contemplate bringing the no-nonsense centre-half into the fold just before the World Cup, but if the boss is choosing on form, he must at least consider it.
Luke Shaw
Luke Shaw used to be one of England’s most dependable full-backs. Now, he is just beginning to rediscover his feet at Old Trafford in Ruben Amorim‘s five-at-the-back system.
Of course, the 30-year-old has a long history of long-term injuries, but whenever called up for international duty by Gareth Southgate, he was someone that the boss could trust.
With almost 300 appearances for Man United under his belt, and another 34 caps for England, there are not many who can bring more experience into the squad than Shaw.
Jack Grealish
This was always going to be a contentious decision, whether he was chosen or left out. On loan from Man City this season, Jack Grealish has been in fine form for Everton, with a goal and four assists in 12 games.
However, with just one goal contribution in his last eight matches, it goes to show just how hot-and-cold the winger can be at times.
His playing style is like no other, though. At the World Cup, being able to trust a player to keep hold of the ball, not let go no matter what, and win smart fouls, will be absolutely key. He would bring that.
Danny Welbeck
Although Danny Welbeck has not appeared on the international stage since the 2018-19 campaign, it is never too late to teach old dogs new tricks.
Luckily for Tuchel, the Brighton man wouldn’t need to learn anything. The 34-year-old already has six goals in 11 Premier League outings, with an assist in the Carabao Cup as well.
With Harry Kane the only out-and-out striker in the squad this time around, it would have been the perfect chance to see how Welbeck would have fit into the team before the World Cup rolls around.