Thomas Tuchel finished the World Cup qualifying phase with a perfect record: eight wins from eight, 22 goals scored and none conceded. That run closes the first chapter of the brief the FA gave him when he replaced Sir Gareth Southgate — the simple, stark objective of winning the World Cup. His job now shifts to finer selection and tactical choices as he prepares a squad to compete in searing heat next summer.
Bellingham or Rogers?
One of the most compelling selection dilemmas is the tussle for the No.10 role between Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers. Tuchel has deliberately encouraged competition to create edge in the group. Alongside Declan Rice, Rogers is one of only two players to appear in all 10 games since Tuchel took charge. He seized his chance when Bellingham was sidelined after shoulder surgery, starting six times and accumulating 531 minutes under Tuchel so far. Bellingham has started four times and played 374 minutes, including a 25-minute cameo against Serbia before starting in Tirana.
Bellingham delivered a full set of attributes in Albania — range of passing, driving runs and a near goal — but also showed moments of petulance, picking up a yellow for a foul after
