Jude Bellingham snubbed by Thomas Tuchel: England boss goes with surprise pick as his No 10 to face Serbia – despite star’s big recall
Jude Bellingham is expected to start Thursday night’s World Cup qualifier from the bench after being dropped from Thomas Tuchel’s starting squad.
The Real Madrid star has been a guarenteed starter for the Three Lions in recent years, but his omission from the previous international squad and subsequent fallout has raised questions about his level of involvement under Tuchel.
Despite returning to the roster for fixtures against Serbia and Albania, the 22-year-old will have to force his way back into starting contention after being snubbed by the England boss.
According to The Athletic, Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers is expected to get the nod, retaining his place in the side in what will be his fourth straight start for the national team.
Tuchel’s decision follows his warning this week that he will not field Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden together, with the England manager arguing that England’s current structure demands balance above reputation.
Speaking to talkSPORT, he stressed that the system relies on a six, eight, a ten and a nine, creating fierce competition in the central creative role.
Jude Bellingham is expected to start Thursday night’s World Cup qualifier from the bench
He argued that players cannot be included purely to accommodate big names and added that England now have several specialists capable of playing as the No 10.
Tuchel namechecked Bellingham, Foden and Rogers among those competing for the position, alongside Cole Palmer and Morgan Gibbs-White.
More to follow.
