Thomas Tuchel is set to name three strikers in his England squad, a move that could pave the way for Ollie Watkins to earn a World Cup call-up. The England manager will announce his 26-man squad on Friday, with the forward line generating significant debate ahead of the tournament.
Harry Kane Leads the Line
Bayern Munich star Harry Kane remains the undisputed captain, top scorer, and talisman for England, securing his place as one of the first names on the team sheet. However, the expanded 26-man squad allows Tuchel to include three strikers, leaving two spots open for competition.
Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins was omitted from the March squad but has responded impressively, netting nine goals since then, including four in his last three games. His form has caught Tuchel's attention, and Watkins is now a strong favourite to make the cut, having been included in the 55-man long list submitted to FIFA last Monday.
Tuchel's Private Admiration for Watkins
Privately, Tuchel has been impressed by Watkins' form, attitude, and determination, which has reopened the door for his return ahead of Friday's announcement. Previously, England managers often selected only two traditional forwards in 23-man squads, but the larger group for the 48-team tournament, played in challenging weather conditions, offers greater flexibility.
This expanded squad could also benefit forgotten man Ivan Toney, who has been in prolific form in the Saudi Pro League and earned a reputation as a penalty specialist, a valuable asset for potential shoot-outs. Brighton's Danny Welbeck is another option, having been praised by Tuchel for his quality and mindset.
Other Striker Options
Tuchel included Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Dominic Solanke in the March squad, but Tottenham's Solanke is injured, and Leeds' Calvert-Lewin left the camp after one game. Meanwhile, Real Madrid's Trent Alexander-Arnold may struggle to make the 26-man squad despite injury concerns over Tino Livramento. Tuchel also watched Chelsea's fit-again defender Levi Colwill, who impressed in the FA Cup final despite his team's defeat to Manchester City.
