Tuchel’s defensive choices raise questions about Alexander-Arnold’s England future
8 reported
According to a single-source report from BBC News, England head coach Thomas Tuchel's defensive selections for the World Cup have come under scrutiny following Tino Livramento's departure from the squad due to a calf injury sustained in training before the opening group game against Croatia. Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah, a central defender by trade, was called up as Livramento's replacement, reigniting debate about why Tuchel has not restored Trent Alexander-Arnold to England duty. The report states that Tuchel has made his concerns over Alexander-Arnold's perceived defensive frailties clear, saying defensive errors can be decisive in tournament football. Alexander-Arnold has not started any of Tuchel's 14 games in charge, in contrast to the faith placed in him by former interim coach Lee Carsley. Tuchel has stated his approach is to select the best possible team, not necessarily the 26 most talented players, and has prioritized physical attributes in his defensive picks.
What’s reported
Tino Livramento sustained a calf injury in training before England's opening World Cup group game against Croatia.
Trevoh Chalobah, a central defender with one senior England cap, was called up as Livramento's replacement.
Tuchel has left Alexander-Arnold out of England squads since August, including for World Cup qualifiers and friendlies.
Alexander-Arnold started four games under interim coach Lee Carsley but none of Tuchel's 14 games.
Tuchel said: "If he wants to have this impact in the English national team then he has to take the defensive part very, very seriously."
Tuchel stated his selection philosophy: "We are trying to select and build the best possible team, which is not necessarily to select the 26 most talented players."
John Stones and Reece James have injury histories, with Stones starting only five Premier League games last season and James starting 20.
Harry Maguire revealed he was left out of the squad and was "shocked and gutted."
Key figures
Thomas Tuchel, England head coach
Tino Livramento, Newcastle full-back
Trevoh Chalobah, Chelsea defender
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Real Madrid defender
John Stones, defender (left Manchester City at end of last season)
Reece James, Chelsea captain
Lee Carsley, England Under-21 coach
Harry Maguire, Manchester United defender
Sir Gareth Southgate, Tuchel's predecessor
Sir Alf Ramsey, former England manager
Sources: BBC News
