Overview

• Tuchel named a 24-man group for a Wales friendly at Wembley and a World Cup qualifier in Latvia, keeping faith with the unit that impressed in September and recalling Bukayo Saka after injury.
• The England manager said he phoned Bellingham, who wanted to be selected, but emphasized continuity and open competition for places with “no guarantees” for any player.
• Since returning for Real Madrid, Bellingham has made four appearances—three as a substitute and one start—without completing a full match.
• Phil Foden and Jack Grealish were also omitted, with Tuchel insisting there is no personal issue with any of the three high-profile absentees.
• England enter the window after a 5-0 win in Serbia and are closing in on World Cup qualification, with victory in Latvia potentially decisive depending on other results.