Tuchel Releases England Squad: Rashford Recalled Amid New Talents
England’s head coach, Thomas Tuchel, has announced a 26-man squad for the upcoming fixtures, featuring a notable call-up for Marcus Rashford. The forward returns to the national setup after a lengthy absence since March 2024, prior to his loan move to Aston Villa from Manchester United.
Rashford’s Comeback and Squad Highlights
Rashford’s recall is a significant moment as he has struggled to maintain his position within the England squad. Joining Aston Villa on loan in January, he has made an impact by providing three assists since his arrival. Tuchel expressed confidence in Rashford’s abilities, stating:
“I was delighted to see his efforts at the ball and his efforts to be the best teammate possible… there’s no doubt about his talent and his quality.”
New Faces and Key Returns
In addition to Rashford, the squad also welcomes young talents and key players back into the fold:
- Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal): The 18-year-old midfielder has been promoted straight to the senior team, bypassing the under-21 setup.
- Jordan Henderson: The Ajax midfielder makes his return to the England squad after last appearing in November 2023.
- Dominique Solanke: Despite injury issues, he is included in the squad.
- Dan Byrne: The Newcastle defender looks to strengthen the defensive line.
Upcoming Fixtures
The England team will prepare for a series of matches as part of the World Cup qualification:
| Opponent | Competition | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Albania | WC Qualification | March 21 |
| Latvia | WC Qualification | March 24 |
| Andorra | WC Qualification | June 7 |
| Senegal | Friendly | June 10 |
| Andorra | WC Qualification | September 6 |
| Serbia | WC Qualification | September 9 |
Veteran Leadership in the Squad
Tuchel highlighted the importance of experience in building a competitive team for the World Cup next year. He noted both Byrne and Henderson as integral players who will contribute significantly:
“They bring these values to their shoulders and carry teams… This is our focus: to build a strong and cohesive team.”
Injuries and Other Notable Absences
While several key players have been included, some notable absences are due to injuries. Kyle Walker, currently playing on loan to AC Milan, has sustained issues that affect his selection. Additionally, Harry Maguire remains a contentious inclusion despite persistent questions about his form.
Tuchel’s Vision Moving Forward
As Tuchel settles into his role as the England head coach, he is eager to establish his playing philosophy and strengthen team dynamics. He stated how excited he is for the upcoming match at Wembley, underscoring the significance of building a successful national team.
