England’s World Cup 2026 spots up for grabs for top players, says Tuchel
Midfielder Declan Rice is looking forward to having Bellingham, Foden and the injured Cole Palmer return to the squad
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[BENGALURU] Players with exceptional quality and character will always have a chance to be included in England’s World Cup 2026 squad, said manager Thomas Tuchel as he takes a step-by-step approach to building the team.
The German coach retained the squad from last month’s Group K qualifying wins against Andorra and Serbia for Thursday’s (Oct 9) friendly victory against Wales and a World Cup qualifier against Latvia on Oct 14, omitting high-profile names such as Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden.
Injuries also ruled out captain Harry Kane, Reece James and Noni Madueke, all of whom starred in the impressive 5-0 win over Serbia.
Despite the many absences, Tuchel’s decision was vindicated as England secured an eighth successive victory over Wales at Wembley as the Three Lions won 3-0.
“At the moment, it is only about the players who are in camp,” Tuchel told the British media after the match.
“The competition is on. They deserve it also. And I am still absolutely convinced the guys who were in Serbia and against Andorra last camp deserve to be in this camp. This is where the focus has to be.
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“The door is always open for anyone to jump in. (Against Wales) we had four changes from the match in Serbia. We were forced to do four changes but it was seamless, and everyone who started played with the same energy ... Happy that we can prove another point. Next camp is the next nomination.
“The nomination comes and then there is always an open door for top quality, top characters. We are in October now so we go step by step.”
Midfielder Declan Rice said he was looking forward to having Bellingham, Foden and the injured Cole Palmer in the next camp.
“We are obviously an unreal team, and they’re in the team as well. Let’s not get away from that. What they have done in an England shirt is incredible,” he said.
“As a team, we want to keep integrating everyone as much as possible before the World Cup.” REUTERS
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