Thomas Tuchel has named Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson as potential candidates for England’s 2026 World Cup squad in his first lineup, highlighting their contributions alongside new call-ups Myles Lewis-Skelly and Dan Burn. Tuchel’s appointment follows England’s struggles to secure a major tournament victory since 1966. Rashford, recently revitalized at Aston Villa, and veteran Henderson, known for his leadership, are seen as key players for the team. Tuchel, the first German to manage England, expressed excitement about the role and aims to prove the Football Association’s decision to appoint him was the right one.
Thomas Tuchel announced that Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson are in contention for England’s 2026 World Cup squad after being included in his first selection on Friday. Myles Lewis-Skelly from Arsenal and Newcastle’s Dan Burn received their first call-ups for Tuchel’s debut matches in the World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia. England has brought in the former Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain manager with hopes of securing their first major tournament victory since 1966, following back-to-back losses in the European Championship finals under Gareth Southgate. Rashford hasn’t played for the national team in a year but has shown a resurgence since his January loan to Aston Villa from Manchester United.
Henderson, aged 34, last represented England in November 2023 during his 81 appearances. His transfers to Saudi Arabia and later Ajax caused him to slip down the selection order behind Southgate and interim manager Lee Carsley.
“Everyone who’s part of this first camp is a contender for the World Cup,” Tuchel expressed during a press conference at Wembley.
“Jordan, I think that’s quite straightforward,” he continued. “He brings leadership, character, personality, and energy to any team.”
“He ensures that everyone adheres to the standards, and with that quality, he embodies the foundation of what we are trying to establish as a team.”
Rashford, previously sidelined at United under Ruben Amorim, has returned to form, contributing to Villa’s advancement to the quarter-finals of both the Champions League and FA Cup with four assists in nine matches.
Tuchel expressed his desire to “connect” with the 27-year-old and to motivate Rashford to maintain his improved work ethic.
“I noticed Marcus’s significant influence at Aston Villa after his transition,” said Tuchel, who led Chelsea to a Champions League victory in 2021.
“His commitment to counter-pressing and tracking back was impressive, and I felt strongly that we should call him up to encourage him to maintain that level and avoid returning to old habits.”
Lewis-Skelly was anticipated to be included following a standout season with the Gunners at the age of 18.
Burn, on the other end of his career at 32, earns his first call-up due to his consistent performances.
Tuchel is the third non-British coach to lead England, following Fabio Capello and Sven-Goran Eriksson.
The German’s hiring raised eyebrows among some England supporters, given the historical rivalry with his home country.
However, Prince William, now serving as a patron of the English Football Association after 18 years as president, believes Tuchel’s track record makes him an excellent fit for the role.
“Without a doubt, he is among the top five managers in the world. It would be fantastic if he could lead us to World Cup victory next year. It’s definitely within reach,” William remarked to The Sun on Friday.
Tuchel stated it was an “honor” to meet William during his early days in charge and is eager to validate the Football Association’s decision to appoint him.
“It’s exciting and a bit surreal,” he reflected on being the first German to manage England. “It’s a significant honor, and I take great pride in it. I am fully aware of the responsibility and will work hard to earn my place here.”
Squad
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)
(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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