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Thomas Tuchel has stated that putting together the highest-profile footballers is no assurance of building the most effective squad dynamic. He hinted that even if the Real Madrid midfielder were fully fit following his shoulder problem, the player could still have been omitted from the latest national team selection.

Focus on Team Spirit

England's head coach also indicated that the Arsenal winger's return might not have occurred had his fellow Arsenal player the injured winger remained fit. Tuchel has placed significant emphasis on squad unity in his selection for the upcoming friendly against Wales and World Cup qualifier in Latvia.

"We're building the strongest squad," said the England boss, who challenged the traditional thinking that World Cup winners typically choose their top attacking players.

Previous Results

Tuchel pointed to the excellent atmosphere in the previous campaign when England defeated Andorra and performed brilliantly versus Serbia without Bellingham. He saw little justification to change the squad chemistry that produced such positive performances.

• Jude Bellingham excluded even though club comeback
• Phil Foden omitted despite improved form
• Jack Grealish also was excluded

Fitness Considerations

While Tuchel partially explained Bellingham's exclusion to fitness concerns, he recognized that the midfielder desired selection when they spoke. Tuchel had earlier said sorry to the midfielder for remarks about his on-field behavior.

"Don't you think that attitude from substitutes, support from training, and team togetherness enables the first team to perform to their potential?" he questioned.

Squad Selection Justification

Tuchel emphasized that his decisions weren't individual targeting specific individuals but rather recognized those who had performed during the previous campaign.

"How would I my explanation dropping them and still be authentic in my words?" Tuchel asked.

Injury Enforced Changes

The only change in selection proved necessary with injured Madueke making way for the returning Bukayo Saka. The manager explained that even Saka might have missed out if Madueke stayed healthy.

Other absentees included Chelsea's Cole Palmer, who continues to struggle with fitness issues. Given just two more camps before the World Cup, opportunities are diminishing for certain individuals to prove themselves.

Tournament Timing Issues

The manager revealed his preference for England's World Cup games to begin at later times due to heat concerns in North America. He acknowledged this would create viewing difficulties for English fans but maintained player welfare must come first.

"I understand supporters will not like it but for the team it's better if we play later," Tuchel said. "The players are the game and we have to protect them."