5 players Tuchel could call up to the England squad next time.

England secured their place in the 2026 World Cup early after a 5-0 victory over Latvia. With the next two qualifying matches against Serbia and Albania being relatively low-pressure, Thomas Tuchel can rotate his squad, resting key players like Harry Kane and giving opportunities to those currently in good form.

Five prominent names that could be considered are: Danny Welbeck, Jack Grealish, Adam Wharton, Tyrick Mitchell, and Jacob Murphy.

Danny Welbeck – resurgent form, a backup option for Kane.

The 34-year-old Brighton striker is making a strong impression with six goals in 10 Premier League games, a performance second only to Erling Haaland. At international level, Welbeck has 42 caps and 16 goals.

With Ollie Watkins' form declining, Welbeck is a suitable option to add depth and can serve as a backup for Harry Kane. Given the high tempo of club football, this is a good time to test his goal-scoring form and the cohesion of Tuchel's team selection.

Jack Grealish – a forgotten name and the solution for the left wing.

Grealish, currently on loan at Everton, leads the Premier League in assists. The 30-year-old has rediscovered his best form and rhythm since leaving Aston Villa.

With Anthony Gordon injured, Grealish is a logical option for the left flank. The trial period could help the coaching staff reassess his role in the attacking wing structure, especially as England need more quality passing options.

Adam Wharton – the future of midfield and a test alongside Declan Rice

The 21-year-old Crystal Palace midfielder has only made one appearance for England, but is considered a long-term option for the midfield. Wharton is close to returning to action after injury, and this is a good opportunity for Tuchel to test his partnership with Declan Rice.

The competition with Kobbie Mainoo and Elliot Anderson made training sessions and match minutes a useful test, especially in allocating personnel between the midfield and wing positions during the selection phase.

Tyrick Mitchell – eager to be recognized at left-back.

Called up to the national team in 2022, the Crystal Palace left-back could still choose Jamaica if not recalled. Mitchell has maintained consistency in the Premier League and is a key player in Palace's solid defensive system.

The left-back position for England remains a question mark, so a less stressful training camp is an opportunity to assess Mitchell's defensive and attacking capabilities, aiming to increase competition on the left flank.

Jacob Murphy – a belated example and opportunities opening up on both sides.

The 30-year-old Newcastle midfielder has been in positive form with two goals and one assist this season, after finishing last season with 12 assists. With Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke all having fitness issues, Murphy could be given a chance to make his national team debut.

Having played for England's youth teams, Murphy possesses the right foundation to add depth to the wing during the selection phase, especially when the team needs immediate availability for substitutions.

The personnel landscape: competition creates depth ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The two matches against Serbia and Albania allow Tuchel to rotate the squad and test new options before the end of 2025. Options like Welbeck, Grealish, or Murphy could increase competition, while Wharton and Mitchell help expand the pool of players for key positions.

With an early qualification spot for the tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, England's short-term priority is assessing depth and rotation options. The results of the upcoming matches may not be decisive, but the playing time will help Tuchel shape his squad for the upcoming World Cup campaign.

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