Thomas Tuchel recalls Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson in his first England squad, emphasizing their roles as key players for the 2026 World Cup. Tuchel’s squad includes newcomers Myles Lewis-Skelly and Dan Burn as well. He focuses on leadership and revitalizing the team to achieve success after previous disappointing tournaments.
In his introductory squad announcement as England’s manager, Thomas Tuchel highlighted Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson as key players for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier matches against Albania and Latvia. Following disappointing performances under previous coach Gareth Southgate, the England Football Association seeks to revitalize the squad with Tuchel at the helm, aiming for the nation’s first major tournament victory since 1966.
Rashford’s return follows a productive loan stint at Aston Villa, revitalizing his career after a year-long absence from the national team. Meanwhile, Henderson, 34, has not played for England since November 2023, as he transitioned from Liverpool to Saudi Arabia and Ajax, lowering his visibility in the squad. Tuchel emphasized that every player in his first training camp is a contender for the World Cup.
Tuchel praised Henderson’s leadership qualities, noting, “What he brings to every team is his leadership, his character, personality, energy.” He believes Henderson exemplifies the standards and values he wishes to instill within the England team. Although Rashford faced challenges at Manchester United, he showcased impressive performances at Villa, demonstrating determination and essential skills needed for the national squad.
The squad also includes newcomers like Myles Lewis-Skelly from Arsenal and Dan Burn from Newcastle, marking their first call-ups. While Lewis-Skelly, 18, earned his spot due to an outstanding season, Burn, 32, was selected for his consistent performance at the club level. With Tuchel’s appointment as the third non-British manager and amid some fan skepticism, Prince William commended his excellence, stating, “Without doubt he is one of the top five managers in the world.”
Tuchel expressed his honor in taking the position and his intent to validate the Football Association’s decision. He described his new role as both “exciting and a bit surreal.”
England’s squad includes:
– Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Southampton), James Trafford (Burnley)
– Defenders: Dan Burn, Tino Livramento (both Newcastle), Levi Colwill, Reece James (both Chelsea), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal), Jarell Quansah (Liverpool), Kyle Walker (AC Milan/ITA)
– Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid/ESP), Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace), Jordan Henderson (Ajax/NED), Curtis Jones (Liverpool), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)
– Forwards: Jarrod Bowen (West Ham), Phil Foden (Man City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich/GER), Marcus Rashford (Aston Villa), Dominic Solanke (Tottenham).
Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad marks a strategic shift toward revitalizing the national team with experienced players like Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson, while also integrating new talents. His emphasis on leadership and performance aims to meet the aspirations of winning the World Cup in 2026. Tuchel’s unique managerial background adds an intriguing dynamic as he becomes the first German to lead England, promising a renewed approach to international football.
Original Source: sports.ndtv.com
