Ivan Toney has received a sensational call-up to England's World Cup squad, marking a dramatic return to the international stage. England manager Thomas Tuchel will include the 30-year-old striker in his 26-man squad when it is announced on Friday.
Toney's Remarkable Form
Toney has been out of the England setup for the past 12 months but has been in scintillating form for Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, scoring 42 goals in 37 games. Mirror Sport revealed on May 11 that Tuchel was considering bringing back the former Brentford striker, and he has now secured his place amid several high-profile omissions.
Major Casualties
Tuchel has made some brutal decisions, axing Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Harry Maguire from the squad. Foden has missed out due to a lack of game time at Manchester City, while Palmer has struggled for form and fitness this season. Maguire, despite a strong second half of the season, has been told he is effectively sixth-choice centre-half behind Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, and John Stones.
Maguire's Reaction
Maguire issued a statement expressing his shock and disappointment: "I was confident I could have played a major part this summer for my country after the season I've had. I've been left shocked and gutted by the decision. I wish the players all the best."
Inclusions and Exclusions
Ollie Watkins, who was axed from England's last squad in March, has been rewarded for his outstanding form, including winning the Europa League final with Aston Villa. Other players expected to make the cut include Noni Madueke, Jordan Henderson, and Kobbie Mainoo. Luke Shaw has also been left out.
World Cup Preparation
Tuchel will name his 26 players on Friday, and the squad will fly to Florida on June 1, though Arsenal's contingent will join later. England begin their World Cup campaign in Dallas against Croatia on June 17.
Possible England Squad
- Goalkeepers: Pickford, Henderson, Trafford
- Defenders: James, Quansah, Konsa, Stones, Guehi, O'Reilly, Burn, Lewis-Skelly
- Midfielders: Rice, Anderson, Mainoo, Henderson, Rogers, Eze, Bellingham
- Forwards: Saka, Madueke, Rashford, Gordon, Kane, Watkins, Toney
This squad reflects Tuchel's ruthless approach, and now the pressure is on to deliver results at the World Cup.
