England winners and losers from Thomas Tuchel’s latest camp
England winners and losers from Thomas Tuchel’s latest camp Thomas Tuchel will have been disappointed with England’s final warm-up preparations for the 2026 World Cup, as the Three Lions failed to beat Uruguay and Japan this month. That said, more lessons are often learned in defeat. We’ve picked out the winners and losers from England’s March internationals.
Winner – James Garner The Everton midfielder made his debut as a starter against Uruguay and looked at ease in the England midfield. Offered calm in the centre of Tuchel’s side, producing the sort of accomplished under-the-radar display that has been a trademark this season. Garner’s dangerous deliveries from set pieces and defensive diligence out of possession saw him earn comparisons to Real Madrid superstar Federico Valverde from the England manager.
He’s done his chances of inclusion this summer no harm. Loser – Phil Foden Phil Foden faces a fight to convince Tuchel that he deserves a place on the plane, following another underwhelming camp in an England shirt. Foden remains one of the country’s most gifted footballers but has struggled to produce his Manchester City standard with the national team.
Given a free role against Uruguay, he failed to make the most of that rare opportunity, before an anonymous performance as a false nine against Japan. He’s scored just four times in 49 caps and hasn’t netted for England since 2023. His last competitive goal was at the last World Cup.
Winner – Elliot Anderson If he hadn’t before this camp, Elliot Anderson looks to have secured his place in Thomas Tuchel’s best team. Anderson offered rare quality in a frustrating performance against Japan, completing 111 passes at 94. 9% accuracy, creating one chance, and making four interceptions.