TUCHEL SAYS BELLINGHAM MUST FIGHT FOR ENGLAND STARTING PLACE

England manager Thomas Tuchel has stated that Jude Bellingham is not guaranteed a starting position at the upcoming World Cup. Tuchel confirmed that Bellingham will have to compete for his place in the side. Former England defender Jamie Carragher has also indicated he does not expect Bellingham to start for the national team. Both figures have separately raised doubts over the Real Madrid midfielder's automatic inclusion in the starting eleven.

Carragher expressed concern about England's prospects at the World Cup, stating he believes the team will struggle in the tournament. The former Liverpool centre-back identified specific fears regarding the Three Lions' chances of progressing in the competition. Tuchel's comments suggest the England squad's starting line-up remains open for selection across multiple positions. Bellingham has been a prominent figure in England squads in recent years, making the manager's statement a notable development ahead of the tournament.

The World Cup will represent Tuchel's first major international tournament as England manager, having taken charge of the side earlier this year. Both Tuchel's selection stance and Carragher's assessment place Bellingham's role at the centre of debate around England's World Cup preparations. Tuchel has not confirmed who will occupy Bellingham's natural position should the midfielder not start. England's squad selection and tactical approach ahead of the tournament remain subjects of ongoing public discussion.