England manager Thomas Tuschel has insisted that there is “no problem” between him and Jude Bellingham despite rejecting the midfielder’s plea to England’s call. The three Lions bosses have announced his latest team for the upcoming international break, which will be held on Friday. This will mark the three Lions who are friendly and will win Wales in Latvia in World Cup qualifying.
Regulars such as Harry Kane, Jordan Pickford and Declan Rice were all included in the lineup. However, one notable omission was Real Madrid midfielder Bellingham. Usually a constant presence for the UK, Bellingham missed his previous camp due to a shoulder injury. The 22-year-old made his season debut last weekend with a 5-2 defeat to City rival Atletico Madrid, appearing mid-Champions League. As a result, he was expected to be recalled to the national team.
However, Bellingham was dropped as Tuchel wanted to maintain the same team from his final international break.
During the press conference, Tuchel said: “He (Bellingham) is a special player and there are always special rules for special players, but we decided to continue the simple decision to invite the same group.
“Jude deserves to be here all the time. He’s not getting a perfect rhythm again at Real Madrid. He’s not finished a perfect match. He wanted to be called. He got a call. It’s not a troublesome conversation.”
Tuchel added. “Are we a better team with Jude? Yes, but what if Jude gets injured before the World Cup?
Bellingham hopes to continue Real Madrid’s face to face with Villarreal to return to the shape this weekend. The mid-part choice sparked much debate following the squad’s announcement.
Former Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson has been selected as his second camp. Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace is among those who missed out despite appearing on Oliver Grasner’s side.
Tuchel admits that despite his omission he deserves to be included. He said: “Phil Foden is a very good moment. Adam Wharton deserves to be with us.
“Curtis Jones and Trevo Charova have gotten their clubs and a few minutes. There are players who deserve to be here. Cole Palmer is injured by someone who is a special player. That’s how it always happens.”
