Football’s memory is short, particularly when it comes to national sides. The most successful teams resemble club sides in that they have a core of players and a clearly defined style of play. While there is always an in-form player who garners attention, continuity is just as important, if not more so, in international football. With the selection of the new squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia, a new phase begins.
All managers make surprising selections early on, as seen in previous regimes. This will provide insight into how the new leadership plans to approach the 2026 World Cup. Given the contract duration, the focus will likely be on immediate success rather than long-term development, which may lead to a greater reliance on experienced players who had seemed out of contention. Although this approach has drawbacks, a clear focus on the short term could prove beneficial.
This likely means that Harry Kane will continue leading the side despite his underwhelming performances in recent tournaments. Alternatives such as Ollie Watkins, Ivan Toney, Dominic Solanke, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Callum Wilson have faced form or injury issues. Danny Welbeck, at 34, could benefit from this short-term approach, while Liam Delap, at 22, may have earned a call-up.
Determining the attacking setup remains a challenge. In the previous tournament, the squad had an excess of players suited to playing as a No 10 or drifting inside, which conflicted with Kane’s natural tendency to drop deep. His ability to drop back, turn, and deliver passes is invaluable, but the team lacked runners beyond him. The absence of Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke, and the exclusion of Raheem Sterling, still leaves a wealth of options, including Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze, Phil Foden, Morgan Gibbs-White, Anthony Gordon, Jack Grealish, James Maddison, Ethan Nwaneri, Cole Palmer, Marcus Rashford, and Morgan Rogers.
Balancing the attack is crucial. Rashford, despite only recently finding form, offers pace and an ability to exploit the spaces left by Kane. The challenge is whether both Palmer and Bellingham can be accommodated, leading to potentially difficult omissions.
In midfield, the squad appears to favor a 4-2-3-1 or a variation of 4-3-3. The long-standing issue remains the absence of a ball-playing anchor. Declan Rice seems more suited to an advanced role rather than sitting deep. Previous selections have experimented with Angel Gomes, though concerns remain over his physicality. Adam Wharton is a likely inclusion but is still regaining fitness. Curtis Jones and Conor Gallagher could feature, especially if a 4-3-3 setup is preferred.
In goal, Jordan Pickford remains the clear first choice. The defense is more uncertain. Marc Guéhi impressed in the last tournament and has regained form, making him a strong candidate for the left-sided center-back role. Ideally, John Stones would partner him, but injury issues create opportunities for players like Ezri Konsa.
Full-back positions present further dilemmas. Lewis Hall, initially a strong candidate, is sidelined until summer. Myles Lewis-Skelly has made an impact at Arsenal but carries disciplinary risks. Tyrick Mitchell, after another solid season, is a more experienced option. Given tactical considerations, fielding someone comfortable at wing-back may be too risky unless the setup accommodates it. Levi Colwill’s struggles this season also limit options.
On the right, selecting Trent Alexander-Arnold comes with the usual trade-offs. His defensive vulnerabilities must be accounted for, which influences midfield and defensive structure. Safer choices include Rico Lewis, Tino Livramento, Djed Spence, or, if fit, Reece James.
Ultimately, the key is internal coherence selecting the right players for the system rather than the best individuals. Managing external expectations and avoiding reactionary selections is essential. While top talents play a crucial role, success ultimately depends on the supporting cast that enables them to thrive.
