By Talal osman Chief football writer
England completed a flawless World Cup qualifying campaign with victory in Albania, giving head coach Thomas Tuchel an outstanding record of eight wins from eight with 22 goals scored and none conceded.
It concludes phase one of the job Tuchel was brought in to do by the Football Association after succeeding Sir Gareth Southgate. Namely win the World Cup.
Tuchel's planning now moves to the next stage - so what are the major issues he must ponder before he names his World Cup squad as he looks to end a 60-year wait for a major men's trophy?
Bellingham or Rogers?
The rivalry between childhood friends Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers for England's number 10 jersey provides an intriguing sub-plot to Tuchel's World Cup build-up.
Tuchel stresses the battle can remain friendly, although it has almost been stoked and encouraged by the German, so keen is he to create edge and competition in his squad.
Along with Declan Rice, Rogers is the only other England player to feature in all 10 games under Tuchel.
Rogers took his chance impressively when Bellingham was absent after shoulder surgery, then Tuchel kept faith with Aston Villa's 23-year old after he decided against giving one of the global superstars in England's squad an instant recall.
After a 25-minute cameo as a substitute against Serbia at Wembley, Bellingham started in Tirana, delivering a bit of everything that makes him such a passionate point of discussion.
Bellingham showed his range of passing, made trademark driving runs, almost scored in the second half – but also demonstrated petulance when he was shown a yellow card for a foul committed after he lost possession, then looked unhappy at being substituted, which Tuchel said he will review.
How did Jude Bellingham do against Albania?
|
Shots |
2 |
Joint 2nd |
|
Touches in opposition box |
4 |
Joint 1st |
|
Chances created |
2 |
Joint 2nd |
|
Touches |
77 |
5th |
|
Successful passes |
51 |
5th |
|
Passes in final third |
26 |
1st |
|
Dribbles attempted |
3 |
Joint 1st |
|
Duels attempted |
12 |
2nd |
|
Duels won |
7 |
1st |
|
Tackles |
2 |
Joint 2nd |
|
Fouls won |
3 |
1st |
The accomplished manner in which Rogers has taken to the England stage has given Tuchel a wonderful conundrum, while the searing heat at next summer's World Cup means he is likely to deploy "starters" and "finishers", Bellingham and Rogers can do both.
Rogers has an avid admirer in Tuchel. He has made 10 appearances under him, starting six games and playing for a total of 531 minutes. Bellingham has started four, playing 374 minutes in total.
Tuchel will not duck big decisions. He will not indulge in star systems or simply pack his team with the biggest names.
So who will start?
For all Rogers' impressive work, Bellingham has proved he can deliver game-changing moments at the highest level, his status also confirmed when Albania's Kristjan Asllani asked him to swap shirts at half-time rather than risk leaving it until the end.
It concludes phase one of the job Tuchel was brought in to do by the Football Association after succeeding Sir Gareth Southgate. Namely win the World Cup.
Tuchel's planning now moves to the next stage - so what are the major issues he must ponder before he names his World Cup squad as he looks to end a 60-year wait for a major men's trophy?
Thomas Tuchel, coach of the England national football team, is facing significant scrutiny ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to the challenges in his squad’s formation, particularly concerning the shortage of traditional center forwards. His recent squad announcement revealed Harry Kane as the sole pure striker, raising concerns about the team's attacking options.
The lack of young, proven strikers within England’s ranks has been highlighted as a critical issue, with many relying on versatile forwards who can adapt to different attacking roles rather than serving as a traditional number 9. Player injuries and a limited pool of goal-scoring center forwards have compounded the problem, putting pressure on Tuchel to find effective tactics and develop emerging talent.
Tuchel's ability to address these forward-line challenges, manage player fitness, and optimize performances will be crucial as England aims to progress deep into the World Cup tournament. The tactical decisions and squad selections he makes in the upcoming months will be closely analyzed by fans, media, and football experts worldwide.
His response to these challenges will not only define England’s immediate success but also influence his coaching legacy on the international stage.
