England Under 16s head coach, Thomas Tuchel has named his squad for the forthcoming international matches in November. With the return of Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden, the squad should be in high spirits. Their performances at their clubs have been nothing short of pivotal. This choice features the long-awaited inclusion of Alex Scott for her first senior call-up. Meanwhile, Adam Wharton is back after beating the injury monster.
After not including him in the squad this past October, Southgate will be bringing in Bellingham. His recent performances helped confirm his emergence as an important player for club and country. Foden, too, has been called back after a stunning return to form over the second half of the last season, adding even more firepower at Tuchel’s disposal.
There are notable omissions as well. Perhaps surprisingly to some given his performances this term, he’ll be doing so without the fit-again Danny Welbeck. Further complicating matters, Ollie Watkins remains on the bench with a recurrent injury concern.
Key Inclusions and Omissions
The biggest takeaway from the initial squad announcement is that Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden are both in the squad. Both players have been unstoppable forces of nature in their most recent pair of matches at the club level. Of Bellingham’s return, much has been said, but for good reason, as the former Dortmund man has taken La Liga by storm.
Foden’s recall is partly due to his incredible run in the Premier League. Tuchel’s willingness to reintroduce these players speaks to Tuchel’s interest in serving up a competitive squad.
Welbeck’s absence raises questions about England’s striking options. Harry Kane is the only proven commodity in the No. 9 spot on the roster. Tuchel has deeper challenges with his scarcity of options in this position.
“It’s a tough break for Danny Welbeck to miss out, but it’s no huge surprise for a player who, despite his brilliant form and six Premier League goals, turns 35 later this month and hasn’t played international football for seven years.” – Peter Smith
Goalkeepers and Defenders
That leaves the goalkeeping department with Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, and Nick Pope taking James Trafford’s spot in this squad pick. This move underlines Tuchel’s approach in wanting to sharpen the defensive structure before the international break.
The defensive lineup includes Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Nico O’Reilly, Jarrel Quansah, Djed Spence, and John Stones. The shifting combination of veterans and up and coming players on the defensive front looks to offer adequate support while the team navigates important early games.
With injuries sideling some players, it is essential for Tuchel to ensure that the chosen defenders can adapt quickly to various playing styles, particularly when facing formidable opponents.
Midfield and Forward Options
The midfield includes Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Jordan Henderson, Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers, Alex Scott, and Adam Wharton. Scott’s first call-up brings a new energy and potential to the squad, while Wharton’s return from injury adds great depth.
In the forward line, Tuchel has assembled a group that includes Jarrod Bowen, Eberechi Eze, Phil Foden, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford, and Bukayo Saka. The attacking options look strong, though questions remain about Watkins’ missed time due to injury.
“Fascinating squad selection from the England boss. The big guns are back in, with Bellingham and Foden included. No real surprises there, but they will still make headlines throughout this camp – which is their best position? How can Tuchel accommodate all his world-class No 10s? How’s the relationship and dynamic with Bellingham looking?” – Sky Sports News’ Rob Dorsett
Despite the promising array of talent in the forward positions, there is palpable pressure on Kane to remain fit and deliver results.
“But right now, the cupboard looks pretty bare in regards to the centre forward position for England. A lot is resting on Kane staying fit and in form.” – Sky Sports’ Peter Smith
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