🔗 Share this article

Thomas Tuchel's decision to overlook Jude Bellingham's desire to be included in his latest England squad is proof the head coach sees a broader picture extending beyond the Real Madrid superstar.

The 22-year-old, who notoriously mouthed "who else?" when netting a spectacular stoppage-time overhead kick as England defeated Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now understands there are alternative choices Tuchel will evaluate.

It is illogical to suggest Bellingham's exclusion is proof Tuchel regards him as dispensable, but it shows the German will not be subservient to any player, or bow to the whims of his biggest names as his predecessors - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - did.

The days of automatic recalls for the biggest names by starstruck managers and coaches are over under Tuchel. Reputations amount to nothing. Performances do.

Medical Considerations

His ruling is also grounded in solid common sense, with Bellingham beginning only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, after shoulder surgery.

Bellingham has also appeared three times off the bench, but this was not enough for Tuchel to take note of his desire to be in the group who face Wales in a Wembley exhibition match before journeying to Latvia for a World Cup qualifying match.

Past Headlines

Tuchel's dynamic with Bellingham has already created media attention, particularly when he admitted after the 3-1 loss to Senegal at the City Ground in June that his mother sometimes perceived the player's on-field behaviour as "unpleasant".

He later expressed regret, insisting he used the word "accidentally" and has been quick to praise the midfielder.

Tuchel, however, has been in no hurry to return Bellingham to the squad, despite a reputation in recent years which has had him viewed as the fulcrum of England's team.

Coach's Viewpoint

The German stated Bellingham had "desired selection" and that "he remains a special player, and for special players there can always be exceptions."

But Tuchel is determined England's fortunes will not be determined by whether Bellingham is available or not, especially with next summer's World Cup in mind.

"Are we a better team with Jude? Yes," commented Tuchel. "But I told you before, what do we do if Jude is unfit before the World Cup? Do we just cancel?"

The notion of England going to the World Cup without a healthy Bellingham is unthinkable, but Tuchel has established a precedent by making it clear not every strategy he devises will be reliant on him being in the team.

Squad Depth

Tuchel, importantly, is operating and choosing from a position of strength after the outstanding 5-0 win away to Serbia in England's last World Cup qualifier.

He has shown he will acknowledge loyalty after others performed well so much in Belgrade, proving that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply return automatically into his squad, irrespective of their standing.

Tuchel cautioned "there are definitely no guarantees" for any player - and his Bellingham decision validates it.

His comments that Bellingham wanted to be in the squad, but was then not selected, were revealing in this context.

Team Chemistry

Bellingham may be displeased following his conversation with Tuchel, but the head coach has other matters - and players - to concentrate on.

Tuchel was hugely impressed with the spirit in England's squad, which he described was the best since he was appointed, adding to the most impressive display since he assumed control when Serbia were demolished in Belgrade.

He has no intention to disturb that unity, even if that means Bellingham having to be patient.

Rising Players

Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson impressed against Serbia and in the earlier win against Andorra at Villa Park, while Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers excelled in the number 10 role that might have been filled by Bellingham had he been fit in Belgrade.

Notably, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently returned from a hamstring problem, but is selected to occupy the opening left by injury to his Gunners' team-mate Noni Madueke.

Additional Omissions

The other big talking point in Tuchel's squad was his decision not to include Manchester City's Phil Foden - back to his best after an inconsistent season last term - and Everton forward Jack Grealish, who has been exceptional since signing on loan from Manchester City.

Foden has generated 18 chances and scored five goals in all competitions this season, while Grealish has produced the most opportunities in the Premier League this season with 17, resulting in four assists.

Like Bellingham, there is no immediate route back for the pair despite a clamour for their selection - once again showing Tuchel was highly satisfied with what he observed at the last international camp.

World Cup Preparation

He insisted all camps leading up the World Cup, with England needing only five points to assure qualification, would be about developing competition and molding his squad as well as outcomes.

The most recent England squad shows Tuchel will be faithful to his word.