Jude Bellingham is set to start on the bench for England’s World Cup qualifier against Serbia on Thursday, with manager Thomas Tuchel expected to keep Morgan Rogers in the No 10 role. The 22-year-old Real Madrid midfielder has missed England’s past four games but was recalled for this week’s internationals.
Tuchel has opted for continuity, with Rogers retaining his place despite a slight hamstring injury. The Aston Villa midfielder impressed during the past three games and came into the team for September’s 5-0 win over Serbia in Belgrade. He is competing with Bellingham, Eberechi Eze and the recalled Phil Foden for the attacking midfield position.
England have already secured top spot in their qualifying group, but Tuchel faces a selection dilemma ahead of next summer’s World Cup. He has indicated there is a “low percentage” chance he will take five No 10s, with Morgan Gibbs-White and the injured Cole Palmer absent from this squad.
Marcus Rashford is expected to replace the injured Anthony Gordon on the left wing. Marc Guéhi misses out with a bruised foot, while Alex Scott, who earned his first call-up, is not in the 23-man matchday squad.
