England manager Thomas Tuchel faces a genuine selection headache ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Michael Owen has a tactical plan, suggesting how Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers can both start for the Three Lions. It means moving one of the No.10s wider, a decision that could unlock serious attacking potential for England.
Tuchel recently extended his contract until 2028. He’s made it clear no player has a guaranteed spot, not even Real Madrid star Bellingham. Rogers, apparently, is Tuchel’s current preferred pick for that central attacking role, which complicates things.
The Owen Tactical Blueprint
Owen believes England needs both players on the pitch. Bellingham is a global talent, a true asset. But Rogers has caught Tuchel’s eye. The solution, Owen says, is a tactical tweak. You shift one out wide.
Michael Owen stated, “It seems like Morgan Rogers is currently the preferred choice—Tuchel appears to favor him. However, I would definitely include Jude Bellingham if he is fit. He ranks among the best players globally, not just in England.”
This plan likely fits a 4-2-3-1 formation. England needs to balance defense with attacking flair for the North America-hosted World Cup. Getting both Bellingham and Rogers in is a good way to do that.
And Owen stressed the point, adding, “Much will depend on whether Tuchel opts to position one of those No.10s wider to accommodate them both.” It isn’t a wild idea, top teams do this all the time.
Bellingham’s Status and Tuchel’s Stance
Jude Bellingham has 46 caps and 6 international goals since his 2020 debut. He’s a weekly starter for Real Madrid and often their standout performer. Owen considers him “untouchable” if fit.
Owen shared, “If he returns and everything is well between now and the end of the season, he would certainly be in the ‘untouchable’ category for me. If fit, he is a must-have.” He then added, “Players of his caliber are not commonplace. He plays weekly for Real Madrid, one of their standout performers, and a true asset for us.”
But Bellingham suffered an injury before the tournament. His recovery status dictates if he’s even available. Tuchel’s stance is firm: fitness and current form matter most. Reputation won’t cut it. This is a manager who coached Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and PSG; he knows big names don’t win games alone.
Rogers, meanwhile, is doing something right to be preferred. That’s a big statement about his form and Tuchel’s trust in him.
Squad Selection Challenges and Key Dates
The World Cup squad will be 26 players. England needs depth across the board. Balancing defense and creative sparks is the main challenge. It always is with England.
Squad selection decisions are pending the end of the club season. Tuchel needs to assess everyone’s fitness and form. Pre-tournament friendlies against New Zealand and Costa Rica in Florida will be important. They are the last chances to impress before the opener.
England’s World Cup opener is set against Croatia on June 17, 2026. A good start is key. Owen made his comments in partnership with casino.org, ahead of the final squad finalization.
The manager’s loyalty to Rogers is something to watch. Will Bellingham’s return force a change? Or will Owen’s plan provide the compromise?
The Big Question for Tuchel
Tuchel has a tough call. He has a world-class midfielder in Bellingham, who plays for one of the biggest clubs. And then he has Rogers, who is apparently showing him something special in training or recent games.
Getting both on the pitch means compromising on their natural positions. But it also means England could field its two most in-form creative No.10s. That’s a tantalizing prospect for fans. The team needs to hit the ground running against Croatia. These tactical choices could make all the difference.
It’s not just about picking the best players. It’s about picking the best *team*. And how they fit together. That’s Tuchel’s job, and it’s not easy.
