JuicyTalk
England reached the World Cup finals on Tuesday night with a 5-0 win over Latvia, leaving boss Thomas Tuchel with the best part of eight months to figure out his squad.
With over half a season left, plenty of players could come into contention or fall out of favour thanks to form and fitness, of course.
But if Tuchel had to name his final 26-man squad today, who would he pick? The German has said he is keen on continuuity and has not been afraid to leave players out already – with Jude Bellingham, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden all missing the most recent internationals.
Here’s our take on who is on the plane as it stands…
Goalkeepers (3)
Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson, Nick Pope
Pickford is as nailed down a number one as it is possible to be and is set for his third World Cup between the posts barring any calamity. Henderson is regularly excellent in goal for Palace who continue to impress, and James Trafford’s relegation to the Manchester City bench opens up a spot. Nick Pope is a reliable third-choice option uunless Tuchel thinks taking Trafford will be a beneficial experience for tournaments to come.
Defenders (8)
Ezri Konsa, John Stones, Marc Guehi, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dan Burn, Djed Spence, Reece James, Myles Lewis-Skelly
The area of Tuchel’s squad causing most concern? England’s backline looks far from assured and there could be plenty of movement here. John Stones looks a likely starter if fit – a big if – while Marc Guuehi is definitely first choice now.
At full-back England’s options have dwindled massively which is why Trent Alexander-Arnold comes back into the conversation. He has enough time to show his qualities for Real Madrid to force his way back in, while Tuchel is a big fan of Reece James who is another who needs to stay fit.
Midfielders (7)
Declan Rice, Jordan Henderson, Morgan Rogers, Morgan Gibbs-White, Jude Bellingham, Elliot Anderson, Cole Palmer
Despite much of the chat in the last 10 days does anyone think Jude Bellingham won’t go to the World Cup? No, exactly.
Where he starts is another question for Tuchel but Bellingham is a sure pick, as is Cole Palmer unless his fitness is an issue. Declan Rice will start every game and Elliot Anderson deserves to be in contention to play alongside him as it stands. Jack Grealish and Phil Foden have a battle on their hands and one we don’t see them winning right now.
Should Jordan Henderson be on the plane? Possibly not but Tuchel is clearly a fan of the veteran and his experience could play a part during the tournament.
Attackers (8)
Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, Ollie Watkins, Eberechi Eze, Anthony Gordon, Jarrod Bowen, Noni Madueke
What England do if Harry Kane is unavailable is not really worth thinking about considering he has scored so many goals in the last decade.
Ollie Watkins was pushing for his place during the last Euros but has started the season poorly, while Marcus Rashford doesn’t really want to play in the middle but looks certain to travel.
Ivan Toney and Liam Delap are wildcards to feature but this World Cup looks likely to come too late and too early in their careers.
