Ivan Toney is set to make a sensational return to the England squad for the World Cup, with manager Thomas Tuchel expected to name the striker in his 26-man selection on Friday. The 30-year-old has been out of international contention for the past 12 months but has scored 42 goals in 37 games for Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League.
Tuchel's decision to recall Toney comes amid several high-profile omissions. Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Harry Maguire have all been left out, while Ollie Watkins, Noni Madueke, Jordan Henderson, and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to be included. Watkins, who was dropped from the last squad in March, has earned his place after a strong run of form, including winning the Europa League final.
Foden's absence is due to a lack of game time at Manchester City, while Palmer has struggled with form and fitness this season. Luke Shaw is also out, and Maguire has been axed by Tuchel, a decision that likely ends the defender's England career. Maguire, 33, had a strong second half of the season but was reportedly sixth-choice centre-half in Tuchel's pecking order.
Maguire issued a statement expressing his shock and disappointment, saying: '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.'
Tuchel will name his 26 players on Friday, and the squad will fly to Florida on June 1, though Arsenal's players will join later. England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Dallas on June 17.
