Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has voiced his surprise at England manager Thomas Tuchel's decision to exclude Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins from his latest squad.
The Three Lions are preparing for their final 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania this month, despite having already secured their place in next summer's tournament.
Rooney's Reaction to Squad Omission
Speaking to the BBC following Aston Villa's impressive 4-0 victory over Bournemouth on Sunday, Rooney didn't hold back his thoughts on Watkins' exclusion. "I am slightly surprised Thomas Tuchel has left Ollie Watkins out of the England squad," the former England captain stated.
Rooney praised Watkins' performance in Villa's dominant display, noting: "He played very well today, had a few chances and was unlucky not to get a goal. His work rate was excellent."
The football icon also commended Villa manager Unai Emery for his handling of the squad, particularly given their European commitments. "Unai Emery manages his squad so well with playing in Europe and he has so much experience of playing Sunday-Thursday," Rooney observed.
Watkins' Recent England History
This snub comes after Watkins was forced to withdraw from the England squad last month following an injury sustained during the nation's 3-0 friendly win against Wales. The 29-year-old had scored the second goal in that match but left the pitch at half-time after colliding with a post.
Despite Tuchel initially describing the striker's condition as "okay" after the Wales game, Watkins returned to Villa to continue his recovery process. This season has proven challenging for the forward, who has managed just one goal from eleven Premier League appearances thus far.
England's Qualification Position
England approach their upcoming international fixtures without pressure, having already qualified for the World Cup. Tuchel's side currently top Group K with a perfect record of six wins from six matches.
The squad includes established stars like Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford, and Jude Bellingham, but Watkins finds himself on the outside looking in despite Rooney's endorsement.
England will face Serbia at Wembley on Thursday, November 13th before travelling to face Albania at the Arena Kombetare on Sunday, November 16th.
