Jobe Bellingham has been handed his first England call-up, with Thomas Tuchel saying Kobbie Mainoo's recent injury problems cost him a place in the latest squad. The Borussia Dortmund midfielder will join his brother Jude for Nations League games against Croatia and Spain, having impressed Tuchel and his staff this season.
Bellingham is among Tuchel's central midfield options alongside James Garner, Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice and Myles Lewis-Skelly. Manchester United's Mainoo is one of the high-profile absentees, with Cole Palmer and Phil Foden also left out again.
Mainoo's injury struggles
Mainoo was part of England's World Cup squad but did not play a single minute. He was included in the group for the extended international break in September and October but was among a spate of injury withdrawals.
Mainoo has been first choice in midfield under Michael Carrick when available, missing four of his side's 14 games through injury. He returned to the team against Chelsea last weekend before playing a key role in the midweek victory over Roma.
Speaking on Friday, Tuchel said Mainoo's injury last month was a key reason behind the decision not to select him, with Jobe getting the nod instead.
'I think Kobbie has had a difficult spell and missed a lot of matches,' Tuchel said. 'In the meantime it was Jobe who impressed in the same level of time and that is what we want.'
'The door is always open for younger ones to overtake and make their mark but that is just a sign of the level of competition in central midfield.'
Jobe's role alongside brother Jude
Jobe will have the chance to play alongside his brother in games against Croatia and Spain, with Tuchel envisaging a more defensive role for the younger sibling.
'We see him in central midfield, not as offensive as Jude,' Tuchel said. 'It's an incredible achievement for the family and the brothers. I was very happy to give him the call and I saw his excitement straight away in his smile. It was a very nice phone call.'
'We see him in central midfield so he is one of five players who have for central midfield. He is a more defensive player than his brother, good physique good on the ball, very physical player and can keep possession.'
'Now it is on him because we only have Tuesday and Wednesday to prepare for the Thursday match.'
