The return of Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson and first call ups for Myles Lewis-Skelly and Dan Burn were the standout inclusions in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad.
The reintroduction of Rashford to the England squad is yet another step in the right direction in the 27-year-old's redemption arc. It should come as no surprise that the new boss has opted to include Rashford, as he was a constant thorn in Tuchel’s PSG side, scoring two late goals against them for Manchester United.
Tuchel once said of Rashford: “He is very fast, he can score goals in several positions. He has determination on the finish, inside or outside the box. He's super-fast on the counter-attack.”
The Aston Villa loanee’s form has been on an upward trajectory since arriving at Villa Park in late January.
Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson's return is one many certainly did not see coming. While he’s been an important part of Ajax’s season, it should be noted that he has spent much of it on the bench and coming on to secure results.
Perhaps his inclusion is due to his work rate and his ability to lead, or maybe Tuchel just wants to see if he can still meaningfully contribute.
Lewis-Skelly’s call up was predicted by many and is welcomed in lieu of any other left backs. However, Dan Burn’s inclusion was not anticipated.
The Newcastle man’s call up may be a nod to Tuchel adopting the 3-5-2 formation that he is famed for.
John Stones misses out due to injury and is seemingly replaced by Liverpool starlet Jarell Quansah. Kyle Walker has also retained his place despite inconsistent form in the latter stages of his Manchester City career.
Interestingly, four goalkeepers have made the squad instead of the traditional three.
Full squad
Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale and James Trafford.
Defenders: Dan Burn, Levi Colwill, Marc Guéhi, Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Tino Livramento, Jarell Quansah and Kyle Walker
Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze, Jordan Henderson, Curtis Jones, Cole Palmer, Declan Rice and Morgan Rogers.
Forwards: Jarrod Bowen, Phil Foden, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford and Dominic Solanke
The squad has already raised eyebrows among supporters, but it affirms why Tuchel was appointed. He's here for one thing and one thing only, to win the World Cup, and the German believes experience is the best way of achieving that.
Tuchel’s first game in charge is March 21, against Albania at Wembley Stadium, which is followed by a trip to Latvia three days later.
