Jude Bellingham’s return to the England squad for their final World Cup qualifiers is only the first phase of his reintegration by head coach Thomas Tuchel.
England’s games against Serbia, at Wembley, and in Albania are dead rubbers, with qualification for next summer’s showpiece already assured, but for Bellingham the stakes are still high.
Tuchel’s message was loud and clear when he made the contentious decision to exclude him from the last England camp, despite the player’s desire to be included, when victory in Latvia confirmed their World Cup place.
No star system. No automatic recalls. Not even for the brilliant 22-year-old, who has assumed superstar status since his move to Real Madrid.
Bellingham’s return for this camp was inevitable. The notion of England going to the World Cup without such an outstanding talent is unthinkable, but Tuchel’s comfort at leaving him out made it clear to the player and his camp that he is a vital squad member – but no more.
Tuchel’s, and England’s, world will not be revolving around Jude Bellingham.
Now Bellingham must grasp this opportunity to demonstrate he must be an England starter, although his absence last time confirms he has to put in performances – just like any other player – to see off his competition.
