Tuchel: 'The door should always be open for the pathway'

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has named a largely similar senior men’s squad to face Croatia and Spain in November’s UEFA Nations League fixtures, to that which came together in the last international break in October. 

However, within that group are a number of new faces – namely Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jobe Bellingham and Fulham forward Josh King – and Tuchel is excited to see more of the talented young players up close in the coming days.

“[October’s] camp was excellent and we were happy with the last two-and-half-weeks that we had together,” explained Tuchel in his first press conference since naming November’s squad.

“The impact of all the players was immense throughout the whole camp, which is why we have stuck mainly with the group and all the offensive players.”

Fulham forward King is one of the new faces among the Three Lions’ offensive ranks, with Tuchel citing the 19-year-old’s versatility as a potential threat.

And having previously trained with the senior squad ahead of last summer’s FIFA World Cup, the England head coach is looking for King to bring a ‘spark’ to training.

“I want to see him (King) on both wings and he’s an extra player that we can use," continued Tuchel. "Josh can play all four positions and he made a big impression in the US and has had a good start to the season. He gives us a bit of flexibility and he’s a young player, an exciting player.

"He did well in training through his attitude, the smile, the positivity. He’s difficult to defend and hopefully he can bring this little spark into camp and make an impression.”

Also selected for the senior men’s team for the first time is under-21s captain Jobe Bellingham, who joins his brother, Jude, in the 25-man squad.

“I think the door should always be open for the pathway and for those that have delivered special performances over a long period of time - that’s what Jobe has done,” explained Tuchel on the younger Bellingham’s selection.

“He’s found his rhythm with Dortmund, has had an excellent start to the season and is a regular starter now. We have Myles (Lewis-Skelly) suspended for the match against Croatia, so there’s an opportunity for him and he comes in on his own merit.

"We’re glad to have him in the camp and to see what he can do for us. In general, it’s an incredible achievement for his and Jude’s family for both the brothers to be selected for the national team.”

November’s international break will also be the first since Three Lions captain Harry Kane was presented with the Ballon D’or and, if selected, the striker will become the all-time record appearance holder for England with 126 caps.

“They’re just incredible achievements,” said Tuchel on Kane’s latest milestones. “They underline his professional status, his demeanour and his attitude. You cannot find a better occasion to celebrate his achievement and an opportunity to celebrate an extraordinary player.

“Let’s not forget it is an important match for us as a team. We are desperate to win the game against Croatia and then have Spain after that. However, the focus is on Croatia.”