Sep 18, 2026
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Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are among the players being considered for a potential England recall.

ManyPress

ManyPress

ManyPress Editorial

3 min readSource:Sky Sports Football
England manager Thomas Tuchel faces squad selection decisions for Nations League

Key facts

  • Cole Palmer has 24 combined shots and chances created this season.
  • Trent Alexander-Arnold has recorded six successful crosses in two LaLiga appearances.
  • Lewis Hall leads the Premier League in winning possession in the defensive third with 19 instances.
  • Dominic Calvert-Lewin has scored four goals in six games for Leeds.
  • Ivan Toney is unavailable for selection due to a scheduled court appearance.

England manager Thomas Tuchel is preparing his first squad selection since the World Cup, with several high-profile players in contention for a return. Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who were omitted from the tournament squad in May, are being monitored following strong performances in the Premier League. Tuchel faces pressure to balance his tactical philosophy with the form of these players as he begins a new era for the national team.

By the numbers

24
combined chances created and shots by Cole Palmer
19
times Lewis Hall has won possession in the defensive third

Form and Tactical Considerations

Cole Palmer has recorded two goals and two assists this season, with 24 combined chances created and shots. Phil Foden, despite a recent sending off, leads the Premier League in assists after a ball carry. Meanwhile, Trent Alexander-Arnold remains a subject of debate due to Tuchel's preference for defensive prowess over the delivery skills the defender provides.

Defensive and Striker Options

Tuchel faces a defensive crisis with injuries to John Stones, Dan Burn, Djed Spence, and Ben White. Newcastle's Lewis Hall is expected to be considered for the Nations League squad. In attack, Dominic Calvert-Lewin is pushing for a recall after scoring four goals in six games, while Ollie Watkins has recorded three goals and two assists in four appearances for Al Hilal.

Player Availability and Status

Ivan Toney is unlikely to be considered due to upcoming court proceedings regarding assault charges. Harry Maguire, despite consistent form for Manchester United, remains an unlikely candidate following his public comments regarding his World Cup omission. Additionally, Dean Henderson's foot injury has created an opening for a third goalkeeper alongside Jordan Pickford and James Trafford.

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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Sky Sports Football.

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