How Danny Welbeck can force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s England World Cup squad
When Thomas Tuchel named his most recent England squad, some were surprised at Danny Welbeck’s omission.
The veteran Brighton striker hasn’t featured for the Three Lions since 2018, but his incredible start to the 2025/26 season led many to believe that he deserved a call-up.
Welbeck has plundered six goals in 11 Premier League appearances this term, the most of any English player in the top-flight.
Football Insider’s Mick Brown has even backed Welbeck to win England the World Cup if he gets the opportunity, and there’s a clear way he can force himself into Tuchel’s plans.
Danny Welbeck on track to beat career best Premier League season
Welbeck is currently on track to beat his career-best tally of 10 Premier League goals, something he achieved at Brighton last term.
As it stands, the 34-year-old is only four away from matching that total with 27 matches left to play, meaning he has a huge chance of exceeding that record.
Should he remain the second top English scorer, behind only Harry Kane, then surely Tuchel will have to select the veteran.
Wayne Rooney has already backed Welbeck to return to the England squad, citing his experience alongside Jordan Henderson as vital.
Crucially, the former Manchester United youngster has a terrific record for the Three Lions, scoring 16 goals in 42 appearances.
As a natural-born finisher and a penalty box striker, Welbeck could act as a super sub at next year’s World Cup and continue his excellent record for his country.
Thomas Tuchel says Welbeck was ‘close’ to England call-up
When explaining why he didn’t select the Seagulls striker, Tuchel said it was a ‘close’ decision and that suggests there’s a chance he could break into his long-term plans.
“Yes, he was close,” the German told BBC Radio 5 Live. “I think it’s always an option because he’s a fantastic leader in Brighton and a very special player.
“He’s scoring regularly and, yes, he was close. He’s not out of the picture. He’s in contention.
“We see what he can bring and it was a close one. We decided for other options.”
Welbeck is arguably second in the pecking order as it stands after Watkins was left out of the England squad following a return of just one goal in 16 appearances.