Trent Alexander-Arnold Aims for England Return Ahead of World Cup
Trent Alexander-Arnold is hopeful of securing a recall to the England squad as manager Thomas Tuchel finalises his selection for the upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. The Real Madrid defender, who last featured for England in June 2025, is back to full fitness and eager to impress ahead of the World Cup.
Tuchel's Right-Back Dilemma Intensifies
England boss Thomas Tuchel faces a significant decision at right-back, with several contenders vying for inclusion. Intriguingly, neither Tuchel nor his assistant Anthony Barry have attended recent Real Madrid matches, raising questions about Alexander-Arnold's standing. However, the defender's return to action for Real Madrid has put him firmly in contention.
Jarell Quansah appears to hold a slight advantage, having made his England debut against Albania in November and playing the full ninety minutes. Tuchel remarked afterwards that the Bayer Leverkusen defender was "a tiny bit ahead" of Alexander-Arnold in the pecking order. Quansah's versatility, allowing him to operate as a centre-half or on the right of a back three, further strengthens his case.
Injury Concerns and Squad Selection
Reece James, a firm favourite of Tuchel, is racing against time to be fit for the World Cup after suffering another hamstring injury. This development leaves Tuchel considering his options for the final warm-up matches before naming his World Cup squad. The manager may select an enlarged group to account for potential injuries ahead of the team's meet-up next Tuesday.
Alexander-Arnold has endured a stop-start period at Real Madrid marred by injuries, casting doubt over his international future. Tuchel promised to contact players after the last qualifier in Albania, indicating he could speak to around fifty-five individuals about their prospects, with Alexander-Arnold specifically mentioned.
Other Contenders in the Mix
Newcastle's Tino Livramento remains another option at right-back, while Djed Spence has struggled for form during Tottenham's indifferent spell. Everton manager David Moyes has been championing James Garner for inclusion. Jude Bellingham, recovering from a hamstring injury, has resumed first-team training at Real Madrid, though he was not in the squad for their victory at Manchester City.
Tuchel attended Chelsea's defeat by Paris Saint-Germain, where Trevoh Chalobah was stretchered off, though manager Liam Rosenior suggested the injury might not be as severe as initially feared. On the left flank, Lewis Hall and Nico O'Reilly are strong contenders, with Luke Shaw's performances potentially putting him in the frame.
Additional Squad Considerations
Arsenal will be anxious about Declan Rice's involvement in both friendlies, given his heavy workload this season. Newcastle's Harvey Barnes declined availability for Scotland in the hope of an England call-up, but time is running out. Marcus Rashford remained on the bench during Barcelona's 7-2 victory over Newcastle, adding another layer to Tuchel's selection headaches.
As the deadline for squad announcement approaches, Tuchel's decisions will be crucial in shaping England's preparations for the World Cup, with the right-back position proving particularly contentious.
