🔗 Share this article

Thomas Tuchel has stated that putting together the most talented footballers does not guarantee building the best team unit. Tuchel suggested regardless of whether the Real Madrid midfielder were fully fit following his shoulder problem, he might still have been omitted from the latest England squad.

Focus on Team Spirit

The Three Lions' manager also indicated that the Arsenal winger's return might not have occurred had his fellow Arsenal player the injured winger been available. Tuchel has placed significant emphasis on squad unity in his selection for the forthcoming friendly against Wales and World Cup qualifier against Latvia.

"We're building the best team," stated Tuchel, who questioned the conventional wisdom that championship teams typically choose their most dangerous forwards.

Previous Results

Tuchel pointed to the positive energy in the previous campaign when England beat Andorra and excelled against Serbia without Bellingham. Tuchel observed little justification to change the squad chemistry which delivered those impressive results.

• Bellingham left out even though Real Madrid return
• Foden not included despite improved form
• Jack Grealish also missed out

Fitness Considerations

While Tuchel partially explained Bellingham's exclusion to fitness concerns, he acknowledged that the midfielder desired selection when they spoke. The German coach had earlier apologized to Bellingham for remarks regarding his playing conduct.

"Would you agree that attitude on the bench, commitment in sessions, and team togetherness allows the starting eleven to play to their potential?" Tuchel asked.

Squad Selection Justification

Tuchel emphasized that his decisions weren't individual targeting specific individuals but rather recognized those who had performed during the previous campaign.

"What would be justify dropping them and still be authentic in my words?" Tuchel asked.

Injury Enforced Changes

The only change in selection was compulsory with the unfit Noni Madueke making way for the recovered Bukayo Saka. Tuchel clarified that the Arsenal winger might have missed out if Madueke stayed healthy.

Additional omissions included Chelsea's Cole Palmer, who continues to struggle with injury problems. Given just two more camps prior to the tournament, opportunities are diminishing for certain individuals to impress.

Tournament Timing Issues

Tuchel expressed his preference for national team matches to begin at later times because of temperature worries across the host nations. He acknowledged this would create watching problems for English fans but insisted player welfare must come first.

"I understand supporters will not like it but for the team it's preferable if we play later," Tuchel said. "Our athletes make the sport and we must safeguard them."