The most controversial England World Cup snubs ever as Tuchel leaves out big names
The most controversial England World Cup snubs ever as Tuchel leaves out big names Thomas Tuchel is set to name his England squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup this morning, and if the rumours are true, there are set to be some controversial calls. Harry Maguire has already confirmed his snub , while Cole Palmer and Phil Foden are among the big names reportedly set to miss out. It wouldn't be the first time that an England manager has left high-profile players at home for a World Cup .
Tony Adams (1990) Bobby Robson remarkably left out Tony Adams from England's squad for the 1990 World Cup, despite the defender's prominent role in qualification. Adams had captained Arsenal to the league title in 1988/89 and was part of the North London side's famous backline under George Graham. However, Robson opted to select Derby County centre-back Mark Bright, a decision which caused controversy at the time.
Paul Gascoigne (1998) Paul Gascoigne 's memorable England career came to an end in 1998 after the midfielder was a shock non-selection for the 1998 World Cup. 'Gazza' had been the driving force of the England teams that had reached the semi-finals at the 1990 World Cup and Euro '96, but he was snubbed by Glenn Hoddle, who blamed the decision on fitness and disciplinary concerns. Gascoigne reportedly wrecked Hoddle's hotel room after being told the news and never played for England again.
Matt Le Tissier (1998) Another high-profile omission from the 1998 tournament was Matt Le Tissier . Despite repeated individual brilliance at Southampton, the midfielder never truly won the trust of England managers. Le Tissier had scored 11 goals in the Premier League during the build-up to the tournament, but was not deemed the right fit.
He won only eight caps during an England career that spanned between 1994 and 1997. Steve McManaman (2002) The build-up to the 2002 World Cup centred around injuries and a problem position on the left-wing. David Beckham's broken metatarsal dominated the tabloids, before Gary Neville suffered the same injury to miss out.