Thomas Tuchel has dropped a major hint over World Cup selection after five players were chosen to model England’s new kit at a hush-hush photoshoot this week.
The FA will reveal their new outfit for next summer’s finals in March and the stars who were picked for the studio session are almost certain to be included in Tuchel’s World Cup squad, barring injury.
The group were led by captain Harry Kane and he was joined by Jude Bellingham, Jordan Pickford, Marcus Rashford and Elliot Anderson.
Kane and goalkeeper Pickford are givens, but the inclusion of Bellingham would appear to quell any doubt over Tuchel leaving him out of the squad that travels to North America.
The Real Madrid midfielder was omitted from the October internationals despite declaring himself fit after shoulder surgery, leading to speculation over his future involvement.
In a radio interview in June, Tuchel referred to Bellingham’s on-field behaviour as ‘repulsive’ and revealed concerns over him ‘intimidating’ his team-mates.
Thomas Tuchel has dropped a major hint over his squad selection for next year’s World Cup
Leaked images of the kit for next summer’s tournament have been shared on social media
But the German recalled the 22-year-old last week and he was re-introduced as a second-half substitute during the 2-0 win over Serbia on Thursday. He is now in line to start against Albania on Sunday and Tuchel has spoken positively of him in recent days.
Anderson, meanwhile, only made his debut in September but has emerged as England’s first-choice holding midfielder. He and Declan Rice look to be nailed-on midfield starters in Tuchel’s strongest XI.
As for Rashford, Tuchel is a big fan but has challenged the Barcelona forward to reproduce his training-ground best on a consistent basis for club and country.
His use during the photoshoot will be a confidence boost and he will likely compete with Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze for a starting berth on the left wing.
Leaked images of the new Nike kit that England will launch ahead of the March internationals surfaced online last week.
They show the slogan ‘Happy and Glorious’ inside the collar and carries a single gold star above the Three Lions crest, commemorating the 1966 World Cup win.
Nike will use Aero Fit technology, designed to help England’s players handle temperatures that could top 30C during games in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
