- Thomas Tuchel revealed a thirty-five-man England squad for the final international camp before the World Cup.
- Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ollie Watkins were left out of the selection despite their high profiles.
- The group features first-time call-ups for James Garner and veteran goalkeeper Jason Steele.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has announced an expanded thirty-five-man squad for the upcoming international window. This camp represents the final chance for players to secure a place for the World Cup this summer. Tuchel described the sessions as the last opportunity to compete for a tournament ticket. The Three Lions will face Uruguay and Japan at Wembley Stadium.
The selection includes several notable returns and surprises. Manchester United players Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo have earned recalls to the side. Dominic Calvert-Lewin returns after a five-year absence, while Fikayo Tomori is back for the first time since late 2023. Everton’s James Garner and Brighton’s Jason Steele are the only two uncapped players featured in the group.
Several high-profile names were excluded from the roster entirely. Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold and Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins did not make the cut. Tuchel cited tactical preferences for these omissions, choosing to evaluate different profiles like those of Tino Livramento and Dominic Solanke instead. Injuries also sidelined Chelsea duo Reece James and Trevoh Chalobah.
To manage heavy workloads, Tuchel has split the camp into two distinct groups. Eleven key players, including Harry Kane, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka, will join only after the first match. The manager aims to provide these individuals a mental and physical break following their intensive domestic schedules. These players have already accumulated significant credit through their previous contributions.
Despite fitness concerns, Jude Bellingham is included following a recent hamstring injury. John Stones also makes the list despite limited appearances for Manchester City. Regarding youngsters, Tuchel acknowledged 16-year-old Max Dowman as an outstanding talent but opted against a call-up to avoid unnecessary pressure. The final World Cup squad submission is due by 30 May.
