In 100 days, the World Cup 2026 will begin. Before that, several important points need discussion. The final selection for Thomas Tuchel’s England squad is still pending, especially with the Premier League nearing its end. Here’s a look at players who need strong performances to secure their spots.
Players Needing a Strong Finish for Tuchel’s England Squad
Goalkeepers
Thomas Tuchel’s current England squad includes Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson, and Nick Pope. While Pickford and Henderson are likely to travel, the third goalkeeper spot is still open.
Nick Pope has not had a standout season, managing only seven clean sheets and facing challenges with his form. However, his Champions League experience could be significant. If he shows improvement, he may retain his place.
Another contender is James Trafford. After joining Manchester City, expectations were high, but he struggled early in the season and lost his starting position. Now the backup, he likely won’t see enough playtime to warrant a squad spot unless for experience, similar to Theo Walcott in 2006.
Defender Considerations
Several defenders have a chance to join the England squad if they finish the season strong.
Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw from Manchester United have been regulars and are performing well. If they maintain this form and stay injury-free, their experience will be valuable for the team. Shaw’s ability to play as a left centre-back adds to his appeal.
Full Back Competition
Djed Spence, Tino Livramento, Lewis Hall, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are competing for full-back spots.
Spence was included in the latest squad but needs to regain his form at Spurs. Livramento had a great start with Newcastle but has faced injuries, limiting his chances. Lewis Hall is in good shape, and his Champions League play could help his selection.
Myles Lewis-Skelly showed promise under Tuchel but has struggled to find regular playtime at Arsenal. He needs to become a starter again to be considered. Alexander-Arnold has also missed games due to injury and has had a tough time adjusting in Spain. A strong finish to the season could position him well for selection.
John Stones has played limited minutes since December. While he will probably be included, he might not start as seamlessly as in past tournaments.
Midfield Options
Selecting midfielders for Tuchel’s England squad will be challenging, given the number of strong candidates.
Kobbie Mainoo has returned to the Manchester United squad and performed well recently. His experience from Euro 2024 could be beneficial. Both Morgan Gibbs-White and Conor Gallagher need standout performances to help their teams avoid relegation. However, Gibbs-White’s competition for the number 10 spot may hinder his England chances.
Gallagher made a move to Tottenham Hotspur to seek more opportunities but has struggled to make an impact. Unless he finds form quickly, his chances seem slim. Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Alex Scott, Mason Mount, Curtis Jones, and James Garner will likely fall short of squad selection.
Wide Attackers
Tuchel has many options for wide attackers, making his selections difficult.
Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Anthony Gordon, and Noni Madueke have all performed well this season and are likely to be selected. Cole Palmer’s versatility and injury-free status could secure his spot. Eberechi Eze has been in fine form, even outdoing Arsenal’s club captain, making him a strong candidate.
Phil Foden remains a regular pick for the national team despite his recent dip in form, and he’s expected to be included. Jarrod Bowen may miss out, given the strong competition in his position.
Strikers
Harry Kane is the clear first choice, having recently reached 500 career goals and showing excellent form.
Ollie Watkins may also be included, despite not being at his best lately due to limited offensive options. His goal count this season needs improvement to secure a place on the bench in the World Cup.
Ivan Toney is the most in-form striker, but his move to Saudi Arabia may impact his selection. Other contenders like Tammy Abraham, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Danny Welbeck have slim chances but could sway Tuchel’s decision with strong finishes.
With just 100 days until the World Cup, many England players are vying for final spots, promising an exciting end to the season.