Tuchel Delivers Encouraging Bellingham Update and Welcomes Man Utd Stars Back
England manager Thomas Tuchel has shared an optimistic outlook on Jude Bellingham's fitness ahead of next month's international fixtures, while also opening the door for a trio of Manchester United players to return to the national squad.
Bellingham's Race Against Time
Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham suffered a hamstring injury last month, with some Spanish reports suggesting he could be sidelined until April. However, Tuchel has revealed he remains in regular contact with the midfielder and is hopeful Bellingham will be available for England's upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan in March.
"Jude is pushing, and as we know him, he is determined and super professional. He will try everything to be with us in March," Tuchel stated. "The club is a bit more defensive on the outlook regarding the weeks of his recovery. Personally, I am optimistic, but I am not sure."
These matches serve as crucial preparation before England jet off to the World Cup this summer, making Bellingham's potential return a significant boost for the team's plans.
Manchester United Trio Back in Contention
In a further development, Tuchel confirmed that Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire, and Luke Shaw are back in the frame for England selection. All three had fallen off the international radar after losing their starting places at United, but their recent reintegration under interim manager Michael Carrick has caught the England boss's attention.
"Absolutely back in the frame! First of all, it is great that he is back on the pitch. He is such a huge talent," Tuchel said of Mainoo. "He has already played a tournament from start to finish for England, so he is back in the picture, so is Luke Shaw and so is Harry Maguire."
Tuchel, who was present at West Ham on Tuesday night, expressed positivity about all three players potentially being involved in March and for the World Cup. He noted that United's shift to a back four and different style of play makes it easier to translate their performances to England's current structure, describing it as "good competition."
The England manager's comments highlight a fluid selection process as he balances injury concerns with the resurgence of experienced and young talents, setting the stage for a competitive build-up to the global tournament.
