Who will be England's World Cup number 10? Tuchel's selection dilemmas
Tuchel has spoken repeatedly about his admiration for Manchester City centre-back John Stones but because of fitness issues, the defender has only been available for four of England's 10 games since he took over. Aston Villa's Konsa started six of England's qualifiers and is certain to be part of the backline. Marc Guehi has missed two international camps under Tuchel through injury, but he was one of the standout players for England at Euro 2024 and then won the FA Cup with Crystal Palace before moving to title-chasing Manchester City.
Stones will be included if he is fit - but who Tuchel picks to start from those three leading into the summer will be intriguing. Meanwhile, Manchester United centre-back Harry Maguire is making a late charge for the squad as the Red Devils continue their resurgence. With his history of performing for England on the big stage, the 33-year-old could be an option.
The left-back spot being a problem position is not new for England. Gareth Southgate opted to take Luke Shaw as his only natural left-back to the last major tournament with Kieran Trippier filling that position and Bukayo Saka also playing in a modified wing-back role. During this qualifying campaign, Tuchel has used Myles Lewis-Skelly, Nico O'Reilly, James, Djed Spence and Tino Livramento as full-backs on the left.
O'Reilly has been excellent for both Manchester City and England this season but has now moved into midfield for his club side. Lewis Hall has missed most of the England camps under Tuchel through injury, although he played for the under-21s in November. He is performing well for Newcastle and the games against Uruguay and Japan give Tuchel a last chance to see how he would fit into his 4-2-3-1 system.
Left-back is definitely the spot in the England team that is currently the most open. Being the back-up striker to record goalscorer and England captain Kane is not an easy task. Ollie Watkins has had the role for the past couple of years but after scoring just two goals in his past 10 games for Villa, there is debate around who deserves to go to the World Cup in that role.