England coach Thomas Tuchel says players can still force their way into his World Cup squad, despite notable omissions from his latest selection.
LONDON: England head coach Thomas Tuchel insists the door remains open for players to force their way into his World Cup squad.
His comments follow the announcement of a 25-man squad for final qualifiers against Serbia and Albania.
Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden have returned to the setup.
However, Jack Grealish, Ollie Watkins, and Myles Lewis-Skelly are notable absentees.
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Morgan Gibbs-White also miss out.
Time is running out for players to impress the German coach before his final World Cup selection in May.
Tuchel will name one more squad in March before his final tournament selection.
“I will also be open because I know anything can happen,” Tuchel told a press conference.
“You don’t wish for injuries but it can happen in short notice.”
He admitted he currently has a “settled mind” about his prospective World Cup squad.
The coach said his immediate focus is on the upcoming qualification matches.
His attention will then shift to the World Cup after this international camp concludes.
Tuchel plans to reconnect with all 55 to 60 players on his long list after this camp.
He emphasised the importance of maintaining contact with a broad pool of players.
England’s March friendly opponents are yet to be confirmed.
Those matches could depend on the World Cup group stage draw.
“The final nomination is only in May and until then, anything can happen,” Tuchel added.
He stressed that young players can still emerge and earn a place.
Players struggling for club minutes could still play important roles later in the season.
Tuchel wants to ensure all potential candidates remain motivated and ready. – Reuters
ALSO READ: England World Cup spots up for grabs for top characters, says Tuchel
