The best England XI that can now be picked from Thomas Tuchel’s squad | Football | Sport

England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup has been confirmed, with 26 players having been selected for this summer’s tournament. It was a decision that raised eyebrows, with the likes of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Harry Maguire among the biggest absentees.

Alas, Thomas Tuchel has his players and will travel to North America looking to become the first England boss in 60 years to win the World Cup. Ahead of the biggest competition in football, Express Sport have pencilled together England’s strongest starting XI from the available players.

Mr Reliable between the sticks. Jordan Pickford will be England’s No.1 for what will be a fifth international tournament as the first-choice goalkeeper. With James Trafford breathing on his neck, the World Cup could prove his last.

Defence: James, Konsa, Guehi, O’Reilly

It isn’t the strongest department for England, that’s for sure. But Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa are the two most in-form England centre-backs and they’ll deservedly start at the heart of defence. Speaking of players that are in form, few have had a better season than Nico O’Reilly, who looks as if he has a free shot at the starting left-back position. Meanwhile, if Reece James can keep fit, he’ll be a weapon on the right-hand side of defence. Staying available in the heat of North America could be his biggest concern.

Midfield: Rice, Anderson, Bellingham

The engine room and the beating heart of this England team. If the Three Lions are to achieve anything this summer, the partnership of Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson will be crucial. Tuchel spoke about his reservations about taking too many No.10s, and it looks like it will be a shootout between Morgan Rogers and Jude Bellingham. We’re going with Bellingham, given the Real Madrid ace has shown time after time he’s got a big moment in him.

Attack: Saka, Kane, Rashford

One of the biggest question marks hanging over England’s squad is the number of goals it has within it. Harry Kane has never had a problem scoring goals and will be looking to do the same in what is his third World Cup as a player. Bukyo Saka hasn’t had his most profitable season, but has helped Arsenal to the Premier League and potentially the Champions League as well. On the opposite side of the attack, a resurgent Marcus Rashford, fresh off a La Liga title win with Barcelona.