England World Cup Squad: The five big calls Thomas Tuchel has got horribly wrong

England’s World Cup squad includes several selections that create doubts among supporters. Harry Maguire is not included despite strong recent form for Manchester United, extensive experience at major tournaments, and usefulness both defensively and offensively. Only one specialist left-back is selected, with Nico O’Reilly likely starting, leaving England exposed if he is unavailable. Backup options are limited and include players who are primarily right-backs or are considered unsuitable. The squad choices also suggest an emphasis on team harmony and trust, potentially at the expense of tactical flexibility and proven tournament readiness.

"Not taking Harry Maguire It is tough to think what more Maguire could have done. He has been outstanding for Manchester United in recent months and played a pivotal role in guiding them from mid-table to a third-placed finish under Michael Carrick. His 66 caps include vital experience at major tournaments - the 33-year-old played at the World Cups in 2018 and 2022 and Euro 2020 - and performed well against Uruguay in March. Maguire is also a useful asset at the other end with his physicality making him a menace in opposing penalty boxes. England could have done with that Plan B option, particularly with Leeds wrecking-ball Dominic Calvert-Lewin also overlooked."

"Just one specialist left-back Perhaps the most staggering decision of all. Nico O'Reilly has earned his place in the squad and the Manchester City defender will most likely start the opening game against Croatia at left-back. But if he is injured or suspended England look woefully short of adequate cover. The three options would be Djed Spence, Tino Livramento, both of whom are right-backs, or Dan Burn. Spence is not first-choice for a woeful Spurs side, Livramento is rarely fit and struggled against top-class opposition in the Champions League for Newcastle while Burn should be nowhere near the squad. Seemingly chosen for his personality, the former Darlington and Wigan defender would be a frightening selection in the starting XI. His club team-mate Lewis Hall should have got the call after a brilliant season. Strong, quick a"

"The German appears to have placed huge faith in team harmony, making several pointed remarks about who he can "trust" in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The flip side is several talented players will spend the summer watching the tournament at home."

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