Why Thomas Tuchel got it right with England’s imperfect World Cup squad

Thomas Tuchel spent around four hours on Thursday calling disappointed England players, to explain to them that the rationale for his 26-man squad was one that could navigate every element of a possible seven-week campaign. This is the biggest World Cup ever , so it contains more variables than any other - above all, the conditions. Tuchel, rather than just assembling the "26 most talented names", as he put it, has ultimately tried to cater for every obstacle they may face.

"Specialists for all kinds of different scenarios," Tuchel said. Hence both Ivan Toney and Ollie Watkins for penalties, and "all kinds of different scenarios". Hence a preference for players who can play in a few positions, especially with how demanding the conditions are going to be.

All of this is ultimately predicated on the reality that most of his first XI - and certainly the front six - picks itself. Reece James will be the right-back, but obviously can fill in for either Elliot Anderson or Declan Rice in the middle, behind Jude Bellingham, likely ahead of Morgan Rogers, plus Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Harry Kane. It’s a strong core, now with new experience at winning at the elite level, and a lot of quality.

That can give any side a game. After that, though, it’s a little thinner. (Getty) Most of England’s real world-class talent - the truly top-tier players - have been clustered in specific positions.