Tuchel names England squad, omits Alexander-Arnold, Bellingham out

Thomas Tuchel on Friday named a 24-man England squad for September World Cup qualifiers against Andorra at Villa Park on September 6 and Serbia in Belgrade three days later, but the announcement was dominated by two storylines: Real Madrid rightback Trent Alexander-Arnold was omitted and Tuchel apologised after describing Jude Bellingham’s on-pitch demeanour in terms that sparked controversy earlier this year. Bellingham is also ruled out of the upcoming fixtures after shoulder surgery and is expected to return in October, the manager said.

Tuchel described Alexander-Arnold’s omission as a competitive decision driven by form and rhythm rather than personal issues. Reece James is currently slightly ahead in the pecking order, Tuchel said, and Tino Livramento came in to provide cover on either flank. The manager added that Ben White would have had a strong chance of selection had he not suffered a preseason injury. “I spoke to Trent. It was a difficult phone call but I wanted him to hear it from me,” Tuchel said, adding that Alexander-Arnold accepted he was “desperate and keen to come back and play for England.”

The squad contains several notable absences beyond Alexander-Arnold....