England's Head Coach Insists Top Talents Do Not Necessarily Form the Strongest Team

Thomas Tuchel has stated that assembling the highest-profile footballers does not guarantee creating the most effective team unit. Tuchel suggested that even if the Real Madrid midfielder were fully fit after his shoulder injury, he might still have been omitted from the recent national team selection.

Emphasis on Squad Harmony

England's head coach also indicated that Bukayo Saka's recall might not have occurred if his teammate the injured winger remained fit. Tuchel has placed significant emphasis on team cohesion with his choices for the forthcoming Wales friendly and World Cup qualifier against Latvia.

"We're creating the best team," said the England boss, who questioned the traditional thinking that World Cup winners always select their top forwards.

Proven Success

The manager referenced the excellent atmosphere in the previous international break when England beat Andorra and excelled against the Serbian team in Bellingham's absence. Tuchel observed no reason to alter the group dynamic which delivered those impressive results.

• Bellingham left out despite club comeback
• Foden not included despite resurgence
• Jack Grealish also missed out

Physical Condition Factors

Although the manager partly explained Bellingham's exclusion due to physical condition, he recognized that the midfielder wanted to be included during their conversation. Tuchel had earlier said sorry to the midfielder for comments regarding his playing conduct.

"Don't you think that behavior from substitutes, support from training, and squad unity allows the first team to perform to their potential?" he questioned.

Team Choices Explained

The coach stressed that his selections weren't individual against any player but rather rewarded those who had delivered in the last campaign.

"What would be my explanation dropping them and still be credible with my statements?" he posed.

Necessary Adjustments

The sole alteration to the squad proved necessary with the unfit Madueke being replaced by the returning Bukayo Saka. The manager explained that even Saka might have missed out if Madueke stayed healthy.

Other absentees included Chelsea's Cole Palmer, who remains affected by injury problems. With only two additional gatherings prior to the tournament, opportunities are diminishing for some players to impress.

Tournament Timing Issues

The manager revealed his desire for England's World Cup games to start later because of temperature worries across the host nations. Tuchel recognized this would create viewing difficulties for English fans but maintained player welfare remains the priority.

"I understand the fans won't be happy but for the team it's preferable with later kickoffs," Tuchel said. "The players make the sport and we have to protect them."