Five proven Premier League players who have never played for England – and eventually could
England take on Serbia and Albania in their final World Cup qualifying games, despite already securing their spot at the highly-coveted tournament next summer.
Thomas Tuchel left out several notable players for England when he made his squad announcement for the November internationals, as they bid to cap off a flawless qualifying campaign.
Premier League legend Matt Le Tissier exclusively told Football Insider that Harvey Barnes should’ve been called up for England after his excellent start to the season with Newcastle.
Yet, at least the ex-Leicester City man has a cap to his name, as Football Insider explores seasoned Premier League stars still waiting on that elusive first appearance for the Three Lions.
Max Kilman – West Ham
Crystal Palace target Max Kilman was once one of the hottest centre-back prodigies grabbing everyone’s attention.
The 28-year-old made a name for himself at Wolves where he rose up the ranks, soon becoming a first-team regular under several managers.
The number three’s hard work secured him a move to West Ham which has yet to pay off and ultimately slowed down his chances of pushing into the England fold.
Although, Kilman did win 25 caps playing for the Three Lions’ futsal team during his youth before securing the move to the Wanderers.
Jacob Murphy – Newcastle
Jacob Murphy has been battling it out with Anthony Elanga at Newcastle for a starting spot this season, despite his excellent 2024-25 campaign.
The 30-year-old enjoyed his best goal involvement output as he notched nine goals and 14 assists in 41 appearances in all competitions for the Magpies.
However, that impressive form has not been enough to force his way into the England fold, given the plethora of wide attacking talent.
Murphy has been an underrated servant for the Toon and it is a shame that his hard work has not yet amounted to a call-up to the Three Lions senior team, appearing sparingly at youth level.
Marcus Tavernier – Bournemouth
Marcus Tavernier has been quietly going about his business for Bournemouth ever since he joined the club in August 2022.
The attacking-midfielder has become one of the Cherries most dependable players, known for his agility and endless stamina.
However, despite playing eight times at Under-19 level, the number 16 has failed to secure his first senior cap for England, most likely down to the waves of incredible midfield talent the country boasts.
At 26-years-old, time is still on Tavernier’s side, yet he will need to improve his solid performances and stay injury-free if he has any chance of pushing into the Three Lions fold anytime soon.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – Everton
Having broken through at Leicester City, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s career died off a little bit when he joined Chelsea back in July 2024.
The 27-year-old entered a squad that was fiercely competitive and provided little opportunity for progression and development, ultimately seeing him leave one-year later for Everton.
Under David Moyes, the Englishman has thrived and has become the creative focal point of the Toffees’ attack.
Whilst still waiting for his first England call-up, Dewsbury-Hall is eligible to play for Ireland and could be convinced to make the switch if Tuchel continues to snub him.
Will Hughes – Crystal Palace
A 23-time capped England player at Under-21 level, Will Hughes has never made the jump to the senior team.
The 30-year-old has jumped around Derby County and Watford before settling down at Crystal Palace, where he has been for the last five seasons.
Yet, that elusive opportunity to play for England beyond youth level has evaded him, despite his respectable consistency for the Eagles.
However, the emergence of Elliot Anderson along with other dynamic and agile central-midfield players may see Hughes never make the next step up in his international career.