England’s spot at next summer’s World Cup in North America is officially secured after a commanding 5-0 win over Latvia.
Harry Kane netted twice, while Anthony Gordon, Eberechi Eze, and an own goal rounded out a decisive victory, cementing England at the top of Group K.
With qualification out of the way, head coach Thomas Tuchel can now shift his focus toward finalising the squad for the finals.
But with so many talented players vying for places, the big question remains: who will make the trip, and will Jude Bellingham return?
The Absolute Certainties: Leaders in the Squad
Some selections feel almost automatic. Captain Harry Kane continues to be Tuchel’s go-to leader, not just for his goal-scoring prowess but also for his team-first attitude.
Tuchel has even been spotted mimicking Kane’s signature celebration in training — a nod to the striker’s influence on and off the pitch.
Alongside Kane, Jordan Pickford and Declan Rice form the backbone of the squad.
Tuchel relies on Rice’s consistency in midfield and Pickford’s safe hands between the posts.
Completing the quartet of near-guarantees is Bukayo Saka, whose creativity and reliability make him an indispensable presence in Tuchel’s plans.
On the Runway: Strong Contenders Ready to Take Off
Just behind the core stars are players who have impressed in recent internationals and are expected to travel, assuming they remain fit and in form.
Elliot Anderson has been a revelation, offering versatility in midfield as a No.6, 8, or 10 while complementing Rice perfectly.
Defensively, Marc Guehi has won over Tuchel with his game intelligence and maturity, while John Stones remains a trusted all-rounder.
Ezri Konsa and Dan Burn provide additional options at centre-back, with Burn’s aerial ability particularly valuable for set-pieces.
Forward options like Anthony Gordon and Ollie Watkins are also likely to make the squad, with Gordon dazzling in Latvia and Watkins remembered for his crucial Euro 2024 semi-final goal against the Netherlands.
Midfield stalwart Jordan Henderson’s Premier League return makes him almost certain to feature, and goalkeepers Dean Henderson and James Trafford round out the trio behind Pickford.
At the Gate: Players with Something to Prove
Several players are on the fringes, needing to impress further to secure their World Cup ticket.
Marcus Rashford must up his output, while Eberechi Eze’s late surge in Latvia helps him edge closer to selection.
Arsenal teammate Myles Lewis-Skelly is another midfielder likely to make the finals if he maintains his form.
Morgan Rogers showed promise in Bellingham’s absence, and Tuchel will weigh his contributions carefully.
The competition remains fierce in every position, with players like Reece James, Cole Palmer, and Noni Madueke waiting in the wings, ready to step up if called upon.
At the Gate: Big Names and Returning Stars
Jude Bellingham’s place remains the headline act. His inclusion in upcoming November internationals is pivotal — without him, World Cup hopes could dim.
Tuchel’s careful management suggests he wants to balance team spirit with raw talent, leaving Bellingham’s selection dependent on his response.
Other notable contenders include Reece James, Cole Palmer, Tino Livramento, and Noni Madueke, all valued for their versatility and recent performances.
Players like Djed Spence, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and Jarrod Bowen remain on the cusp, while uncapped youngsters Jarell Quansah and Nico O’Reilly are quietly pressing for attention.
Waiting in the Wings: Hopefuls and Fringe Players
Some players not currently in the squad are likely to watch closely, including Kyle Walker, Lewis Hall, Adam Wharton, Curtis Jones, and Conor Gallagher. Injuries or form dips could open doors for these contenders.
Newcastle goalkeepers Nick Pope and Aaron Ramsdale also remain on standby behind the current trio.
High-profile players such as Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are always part of the conversation, but Tuchel’s selection strategy prioritizes balance and temperament alongside raw talent.
Save the Date: Names to Keep an Eye On
A handful of players are unlikely to travel unless circumstances change: Levi Colwill, Luke Shaw, Trevor Chalobah, Rico Lewis, Jarrad Branthwaite, and Dominic Solanke could get opportunities if injuries strike.
Others, like Harry Maguire, Ivan Toney, Angel Gomes, and Kobbie Mainoo, are essentially out of contention.
Finally, a wildcard presence such as Arsenal teenager Max Dowman could surprise fans if Tuchel channels the Eriksson-style pick of 2006.
Projected England World Cup Squad
Assuming a 26-man squad, here’s a likely line-up if all players remain fit:
Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson, James Trafford
Defenders: Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, John Stones, Dan Burn, Reece James, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Tino Livramento, Djed Spence
Midfielders: Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, Jordan Henderson, Morgan Rogers, Eberechi Eze, Conor Gallagher
Forwards: Harry Kane, Ollie Watkins, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Gordon, Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, Jarrod Bowen
Tuchel now faces the delicate task of finalising the squad, balancing form, fitness, and temperament ahead of a World Cup that promises to be a stern test for England’s best.