The business end of the season is upon us, but for many players, a greater prize looms later this month: a spot in their nation's World Cup squad. With 48 nations competing and 23-26 players per squad, up to 1,248 players could head to the summer showpiece in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
England's Midfield Dilemma
Barring injuries, Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham are certainties for England as the Three Lions aim to end 60 years of hurt. Rice is an automatic starter under head coach Thomas Tuchel, while dropping Bellingham would raise eyebrows. However, former England midfielder Gareth Barry believes starting both this summer is not a foregone conclusion.
Barry, who earned 53 caps over a 12-year England career and started three matches at the 2010 World Cup, knows the importance of a balanced midfield. Speaking exclusively to Daily Mail Sport as a TOCA Social ambassador, he warned Tuchel must find the right formula while ensuring Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers has a place in the lineup.
"When looking at definites, Declan Rice is probably the best player around and can play different roles," Barry said. "Jude Bellingham has proved he is used to big moments. Morgan Rogers is very different, so I would have him as a shoo-in. Those three would definitely go to the World Cup. But Tuchel must find the right mix for his starting XI. I wouldn't necessarily play Bellingham and Rice both as they play further forward for their clubs. I'd play one deeper, probably Rice, then pick one more."
Rice and Bellingham have started 29 matches together for England, winning 16, drawing seven, and losing five (55.2% win rate). Their last four starts together yielded wins against Finland, Albania, Latvia, and Albania. Notable victories include Italy (twice) and the Netherlands, but losses to France at the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals and Spain at Euro 2024 stand out.
Rogers and the Midfield Battle
Since Tuchel succeeded Gareth Southgate, Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson has occupied the central midfield berth alongside Rice. But Barry is adamant about Rogers' qualities. "You have to find a space for Morgan Rogers. He is different with how he travels with the ball to the front. There aren't many players like him who can take the ball from his own 18-yard box to the opposition's in a flash. He is a definite starter for me."
While the trio are virtual guarantees for the final squad, Phil Foden's place is surprisingly under scrutiny. The Manchester City forward has had a mixed season by his lofty standards and underwhelmed in March's friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. Barry backs the 25-year-old. "Phil Foden has had incredible seasons, but this one has been stop-start. He needs to finish the season strongly with goals, assists, and wins. For me, he should still be in the squad."
Foden's City teammate Nico O'Reilly, 21, is enjoying a breakout season, playing left back and central midfield, and scoring a match-winning brace in the Carabao Cup final. "You forget how young he is. He looks like a Rolls Royce out there, moves so well, and plays with maturity. If you had to pick one now, O'Reilly might be in Tuchel's thinking ahead of Foden, but both have a great argument to go."
Barry's Legacy and Life After Football
Barry, 45, held the all-time Premier League appearance record (653 games) until February, when James Milner surpassed it during Brighton's 2-0 win at Brentford. "I'm happy for James. He has had an unbelievable career. Playing in the Premier League at 40 is incredible. I'd rather be No. 1, but it's nice to see my name back in the spotlight."
Barry retired in August 2020 but returned to play for Hurstpierpoint in the 12th tier of English football in 2024. "My best friend asked me to play. The media blew it up. I played a couple of games—tough going! The left foot still works, but the body doesn't listen. I was unbeaten though, so head held high."
Now he enjoys cricket and golf, batting at No. 5 for Temple Grafton Cricket Club. "I can turn my arm over now and again. I'm looking forward to better weather." He has no desire to coach yet. "If I get a call from someone, I'd never say never. But I've enjoyed five years of retirement with my family."
Barry spoke to Daily Mail Sport after playing the new Angry Birds game at TOCA Social in west London, where he serves as 'Angry Ambassador'—fittingly, he holds the record for most yellow cards in Premier League history (123). Reflecting on his playing days, he said, "It's all about fitness. Grassroots football reminded me I still have the bug to win."
