Thomas Tuchel Issues Warning to Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers as England No.10 Battle Heats Up
Thomas Tuchel has fired a clear message to Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers: there is room for only one of them in England’s No. 10 role as the Three Lions prepare for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The England manager confirmed that both players are in direct competition to play behind Harry Kane, with Aston Villa’s Rogers impressing in recent internationals and Real Madrid’s Bellingham returning from injury.
A Friendly Rivalry with Serious Stakes
Rogers has flourished in Bellingham’s absence, starring in England’s 5-0 victories over Serbia and Latvia, and scoring in a 3-0 friendly win against Wales. But with Bellingham now fully fit after shoulder surgery, Tuchel admitted the pair are battling for a single starting spot.
“I don’t know if they can both play together,” Tuchel said ahead of England’s qualifiers against Serbia and Albania. “Not in the same position, obviously.
“Rather than forcing the best players into one system, it’s better to play each one in their best position. Right now, the competition is between the two of them.
“They’re friends, so it’s a friendly competition. They respect each other, and that’s good. But they’re fighting for the same place.”
Tuchel hinted that while both players could feature together in the future, he is not ready to change England’s tactical structure just yet.
“Can they play together? Yes, but it would require a different system. Right now is not the time to change what’s working,” he added.
Bellingham’s Return Adds Depth and Dilemma
Bellingham, who has been easing back to full fitness after surgery earlier in the summer, rejoined the squad alongside Phil Foden. Tuchel confirmed both players are training fully again and will be available for selection.
“Phil and Jude didn’t have a lot of training until yesterday, it’s been a demanding period for them after their club matches,” said Tuchel. “They’re back on the pitch with us today for a full session at full intensity.”
Tuchel praised both players for their professionalism and influence in the squad.
“It’s always nice to have Phil around, he’s a great guy. And like Jude, he’s an important part of this group. The mood in camp is very positive.”
England’s Creative Conundrum
Tuchel’s comments underline the growing depth, and competition, within England’s midfield ranks. With Elliot Anderson performing strongly in a deeper role and Phil Foden available as an advanced option, Tuchel faces a welcome selection dilemma ahead of a critical qualifying window.
For Bellingham and Rogers, it marks the beginning of what could be a defining rivalry, one driven by mutual respect, but with a single shirt up for grabs.