If manager Thomas Tuchel didn’t know who England’s final squad for the World Cup will be by now, he will never know. And while some argue he has big decisions to make, the plain truth is he doesn’t. The climax of excitement that builds up before the Three Lions manager announces his squad ahead of a major tournament is as ridiculous as it is predictable.
The equation is simple. All Tuchel has to do is choose the group of players he believes will give him the best chance of winning the biggest prize. He’s been watching all season to see who’s playing well. It took me months to evaluate which peg would fit into the round hole that needed to be filled. The main bone of contention is who Tuchel will bring to North America in terms of attacking options.
Apart from Harry Kane, Tuchel needs a back-up striker who can start in Kane’s place, but what if his worst nightmare comes true and the captain is injured? He also needs a forward who can handle the demands of being a well-rounded tourist. He is different from Ben White who played in the last World Cup.
Ollie Watkins and Danny Welbeck have had seasons that are worthy of such roles. Players like Phil Foden and Cole Palmer, on the other hand, don’t. How can Foden justify being selected for England when he cannot start for his club?
The same goes for Palmer, who has endured a disastrous season at club level. Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, Jarrod Bowen and Anthony Gordon should all be on the plane instead. Going further back, Miles Lewis-Skelly has also endured a tough season, but in recent weeks he has taken up a defensive midfield role at Arsenal, helping them reach the Champions League final and win the Premier League trophy.
His versatility should appeal to Tuchel. He can also play at left-back, but England have problems to solve. Manchester United’s Luke Shaw would be a wise choice. The same goes for his rejuvenated teammate Koby Mainu in defensive midfield.
Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa are expected to be at the heart of England’s defense when the group stage begins. But Harry Maguire will also be on the plane with John Stones.
Maguire has returned to his best form at Man United. His experience in major tournaments will be very important. The same applies to the Stones. He suffered an injury but is returning to fitness and is too good to be left alone.
Ivan Toni is a controversial figure, but his determination to seize the wealth on offer in Saudi Arabia lacks the necessary competitive edge. He shouldn’t have been chosen. Must not contain “left field”.
Because no one fits into this category. Unless you include Trent Alexander-Arnold in this discussion. The biggest clubs in the world wanted to sign him. For good reason. He is still a very talented soccer player and should be in the World Cup in some way.
