England manager Thomas Tuchel faces several critical selection decisions as he prepares his squad for next summer's World Cup in North America.
The Three Lions completed their qualifying campaign with a perfect 100 per cent record following victories over Serbia and Albania, leaving Tuchel with just four more matches to finalise his plans for the tournament.
Midfield Selection Headache
Competition for the coveted number 10 position represents one of Tuchel's toughest challenges, with multiple elite players vying for a single starting spot.
The battle appears primarily between Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers, though Phil Foden remains in contention while also offering cover as a false nine. The injured Cole Palmer, along with Eberechi Eze and Morgan Gibbs-White, complete an impressive list of creative options, meaning some genuine talent will inevitably miss the final squad.
Defensive Uncertainties
The left-back position remains particularly uncertain, with an astonishing ten different players having been deployed there across England's last seventeen international matches.
Tino Livramento currently holds the advantage, but Nico O'Reilly has presented a compelling case. Djed Spence, Myles Lewis-Skelly and the experienced Luke Shaw all believe they can force their way into Tuchel's thinking before the May selection deadline.
Handling Omitted Stars
Tuchel has repeatedly stated that no player is permanently excluded from England contention, though several established names might feel otherwise given their current situations.
Jack Grealish continues to perform well for Everton yet receives no international recognition, while Shaw is rediscovering his best form at Manchester United. Harry Maguire hasn't featured at all under Tuchel, and Trent Alexander-Arnold - arguably one of world football's most talented players - faces genuine uncertainty about his World Cup participation.
Forward Line Decisions
On the left wing, Anthony Gordon appeared to have secured the starting role after impressive September and October performances, but his recent injury allowed Marcus Rashford an opportunity.
The Manchester United loanee has flourished at Barcelona, though Tuchel has specifically highlighted concerns about his inconsistent end product. Eberechi Eze has entered the conversation, while Noni Madueke's versatility makes him a likely squad inclusion.
Kane Cover Requirement
Captain Harry Kane has demonstrated his enduring elite status with a stunning start to the season for both club and country, ensuring he will lead England's attack in North America.
However, Tuchel must establish a reliable backup plan should his skipper encounter fitness issues or form dips. Direct replacements are scarce, with Danny Welbeck pushing for recall and Ollie Watkins needing to rediscover his scoring touch at Aston Villa.
With the World Cup fast approaching, these critical decisions will define England's preparations as they attempt to add a second star to their famous shirt.
