England wrapped up a perfect World Cup qualifying run with a composed win over Albania, completing an eight-match sweep under Thomas Tuchel with 22 goals scored and zero conceded.
This closes the first phase of the mission the FA handed him after replacing Gareth Southgate — deliver the World Cup.
Now, Tuchel shifts into his next stage of planning, with several major decisions ahead before he finalises his World Cup squad.
Bellingham or Rogers – Who Runs the No.10 Role?
The growing rivalry between childhood friends Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers is shaping into one of Tuchel’s biggest selection dilemmas.
Tuchel insists it’s a friendly battle, but he has also intentionally ramped up competition within his squad to sharpen performances.
Rogers was outstanding when Bellingham was sidelined with a shoulder injury, and Tuchel continued to back the Aston Villa midfielder even when Bellingham returned. After a short cameo against Serbia, Bellingham started in Albania and delivered a display full of energy, sharp passing, driving runs and one major chance.
But he also showed flashes of frustration, earning a booking after losing the ball and reacting poorly to being substituted. Tuchel said he would “review” that moment.
Rogers, meanwhile, has quietly become one of Tuchel’s most trusted players.
“Tuchel values the edge Rogers brings, and his consistency has become impossible to ignore.”
Both players can operate as starters or late-game “finishers”, especially with the heat expected at next summer’s tournament. Still, Bellingham’s proven pedigree in big competitions gives him a slight advantage.
Phil Foden and Cole Palmer may also influence the midfield picture, but realistically, the choice looks like a straight shootout between Bellingham and Rogers — with Bellingham still the likely starter when England’s opening game arrives.
Kane Is Irreplaceable – But Who Backs Him Up?
Harry Kane once again underlined his importance with two goals against Albania. At 32, he remains in his prime, linking play, pressing, scoring and leading with his usual authority. He is England’s all-time record scorer with 78 goals in 112 games.
Former England defender Conor Coady summed it up perfectly:
“I don’t want to imagine an England without Harry Kane — it’s unthinkable.”
And that is exactly Tuchel’s biggest concern.
Behind Kane, England’s options are… thin.
Welbeck, at 34, was close to a call-up but realistically isn’t a long-term answer. Ollie Watkins has had opportunities, while Ivan Toney’s England future looks uncertain. Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon can play centrally, but neither is a natural No.9.
If Kane were to miss the World Cup, England’s entire attacking structure would need reinventing — something Tuchel hopes he never has to consider.
Defence: Stones Leads, But Who Partners Him?
John Stones was superb in Albania, operating in a hybrid centre-back/midfield role with ease. His experience makes him the likely defensive anchor, leaving Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi (both absent through injury) to fight for the remaining spot.
Guehi has been excellent for England, while Konsa has made major strides under Tuchel.
The biggest unresolved defensive question is left-back.
Myles Lewis-Skelly, Djed Spence and Nico O’Reilly have all impressed, with O’Reilly starting the final two qualifiers. However, the injured Tino Livramento might still be Tuchel’s preferred option when fit.
The door is still wide open for this position.
Who Starts on the Left Wing?
Bukayo Saka has locked down the right side, but the left remains a contested spot.
Marcus Rashford boosted his chances with a brilliant assist for Kane in Albania. Anthony Gordon has also impressed, and Tuchel remains an admirer of Noni Madueke. Eberechi Eze can play wide or centrally but remains behind Bellingham and Rogers in the No.10 conversation.
Jack Grealish, despite performing well on loan at Everton, has slipped down the pecking order and hasn’t featured since October 2024.
As it stands, Rashford may have nudged ahead, but the battle remains active heading into the final pre-tournament camp.
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