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Thomas Tuchel's choice to ignore Jude Bellingham's desire to be selected in his latest England squad is proof the head coach envisions a wider picture stretching beyond the Real Madrid superstar.

The 22-year-old, who famously mouthed "who else?" when netting a breathtaking stoppage-time overhead kick as England beat Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now knows there are alternative choices Tuchel will consider.

It is nonsensical to suggest Bellingham's exclusion is evidence Tuchel regards him as replaceable, but it indicates the German will not be in thrall to any player, or bow to the demands of his biggest names as his forerunners - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - did.

The era of guaranteed selections for the biggest names by impressionable managers and coaches are over under Tuchel. Past achievements amount to nothing. Current form do.

Medical Factors

His ruling is also grounded in sound common sense, with Bellingham beginning only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, after arm operation.

Bellingham has also come on three times as a substitute, but this was insufficient for Tuchel to take note of his wish to be in the group who face Wales in a Wembley exhibition match before travelling to Latvia for a World Cup qualifier.

Previous Headlines

Tuchel's relationship with Bellingham has already generated headlines, particularly when he admitted after the 3-1 loss to Senegal at the City Ground in June that his mother sometimes viewed the player's on-field behaviour as "unpleasant".

He later publicly apologised, maintaining he used the word "unintentionally" and has been quick to praise the midfielder.

Tuchel, however, has been in no rush to return Bellingham to the squad, despite a status in recent years which has had him regarded as the fulcrum of England's team.

Manager's Perspective

The German stated Bellingham had "wanted to be called up" and that "he is a special player, and for special players there can always be special rules."

But Tuchel is resolved England's success will not be shaped by whether Bellingham is present or not, especially with next summer's World Cup as consideration.

"Are we a better team with Jude? Yes," commented Tuchel. "But I told you before, what do we do if Jude is injured before the World Cup? Do we just cancel?"

The notion of England going to the World Cup without a fit Bellingham is unthinkable, but Tuchel has established a precedent by making it clear not every strategy he formulates will be reliant on him being in the team.

Squad Strength

Tuchel, crucially, is working and selecting from a position of strength after the outstanding 5-0 win away to Serbia in England's last World Cup qualifier.

He has shown he will acknowledge loyalty after others impressed so much in Belgrade, proving that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply return automatically into his squad, irrespective of their reputation.

Tuchel cautioned "there are definitely no guarantees" for any player - and his Bellingham decision validates it.

His comments that Bellingham wanted to be in the squad, but was then not selected, were revealing in this situation.

Team Spirit

Bellingham may be displeased following his discussion with Tuchel, but the head coach has other matters - and players - to focus on.

Tuchel was extremely impressed with the atmosphere in England's squad, which he described was the best since he was appointed, stating to the finest display since he assumed control when Serbia were demolished in Belgrade.

He has no intention to disturb that spirit, even if that means Bellingham having to be patient.

Emerging Players

Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson impressed against Serbia and in the earlier win against Andorra at Villa Park, while Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers shone in the number 10 role that might have been occupied by Bellingham had he been fit in Belgrade.

Notably, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently recovered from a hamstring problem, but is recalled to occupy the vacancy left by injury to his Gunners' team-mate Noni Madueke.

Additional Exclusions

The other big topic of discussion in Tuchel's squad was his decision not to include Manchester City's Phil Foden - returning to top form after an inconsistent season last term - and Everton forward Jack Grealish, who has been exceptional since joining on loan from Manchester City.

Foden has created 18 chances and netted five goals in all competitions this season, while Grealish has produced the most opportunities in the Premier League this season with 17, resulting in four assists.

Like Bellingham, there is no instant route back for the pair despite a clamour for their selection - once again showing Tuchel was very satisfied with what he saw at the last international camp.

World Cup Preparation

He maintained all camps leading up the World Cup, with England needing only five points to secure qualification, would be about building competition and molding his squad as well as results.

The most recent England squad demonstrates Tuchel will be true to his word.