Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson have been called up to England’s squad by new coach Thomas Tuchel, alongside newcomers Dan Burn and Myles Lewis-Skelly. Notable omissions include Ollie Watkins and Trent Alexander-Arnold due to injuries. Tuchel’s squad aims to prepare for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia.
In a notable squad announcement, England’s new coach Thomas Tuchel has recalled striker Marcus Rashford and midfielder Jordan Henderson. Rashford, currently on loan at Aston Villa and previously sidelined at Manchester United, last represented England in March of the previous year during a friendly against Brazil. Meanwhile, Henderson, aged 34 and not regularly starting for Ajax Amsterdam, last played for the national team in November 2023.
Tuchel, who succeeded Gareth Southgate in October, will manage England for the first time in World qualifiers against Albania and Latvia. Newcomers Dan Burn from Newcastle United and Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly may earn their first caps following their initial call-ups. Notably absent from the squad are Ollie Watkins, who is recovering from an injury, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, also sidelined due to injury. In-form midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White from Nottingham Forest was not included as well.
Rashford’s return was anticipated due to his commendable performance at Aston Villa; however, Henderson’s inclusion is surprising given his limited playing time this season. Tuchel praised Henderson’s impact, stating, “I think his career and the way he plays now… is just so impressive… Jordan is a big piece in that puzzle for us.” He emphasized that both Henderson and Dan Burn embody vital team values and character.
Myles Lewis-Skelly, aged 18, has gained recognition for his impressive performances in his debut season at Arsenal, featuring in multiple league and Champions League matches. Dan Burn has been commended for his dedication, having risen through the footballing ranks, with Newcastle’s coach Eddie Howe praising him for being deserving of this opportunity.
Tuchel has also included Reece James, who last played for England in March 2023. England’s World Cup qualifying campaign begins at Wembley against Albania, with another match against Latvia scheduled for March 24.
The announced squad comprises:
– Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Southampton), James Trafford (Burnley).
– Defenders: Dan Burn (Newcastle United), Levi Colwill (Chelsea), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Reece James (Chelsea), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal), Tino Livramento (Newcastle United), Jarell Quansah (Liverpool), Kyle Walker (AC Milan, on loan from Manchester City).
– Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace), Jordan Henderson (Ajax), Curtis Jones (Liverpool), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa).
– Forwards: Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Marcus Rashford (Aston Villa, on loan from Manchester United), Dominic Solanke (Tottenham Hotspur).
Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad announcement reflects a blend of experienced players and newcomers, underscoring strategic choices as England prepares for World Cup qualifiers. The inclusion of Marcus Rashford post-loan and Jordan Henderson despite minimal play time showcases Tuchel’s trust in their abilities. Additionally, the call-ups of Dan Burn and Myles Lewis-Skelly represent a commitment to integrating both veteran and emerging talent into the national team framework.
Original Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
