Tuchel's Striker Dilemma Explained
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has shed light on Thomas Tuchel's controversial decision to overlook Brighton's in-form striker Danny Welbeck for England's latest squad. The 34-year-old forward, who previously played for Manchester United and Arsenal, has been in exceptional form for the Seagulls, scoring six goals in his last six Premier League appearances.
Despite widespread speculation that Welbeck would earn his first England call-up in seven years for the matches against Serbia and Albania, Tuchel named Harry Kane as his only recognised striker in the November squad. Carragher believes the German manager's thinking reflects the significant quality gap between Kane and other English striking options.
Tactical Shift Over Second-Choice Strikers
Carragher suggested that rather than selecting backup strikers he doesn't fully trust, Tuchel would likely change England's tactical approach if Kane were unavailable. 'We're lucky to have Harry Kane,' Carragher told Metro. 'I think there's a lot of countries now looking for strikers.'
The football pundit explained that Tuchel probably thinks: 'You know what, if Kane is out, we go with something different' - potentially employing a false nine system or packing the midfield while utilising width. Carragher emphasised that Kane represents a 'real standout' for England, with a substantial drop in quality among other striking options.
Surprise Omissions and World Cup Concerns
Another surprising exclusion from Tuchel's squad was Arsenal defender Myles Lewis-Skelly, despite his limited playing time this season. Carragher admitted his surprise at the decision, describing the left-back as 'a wonderful talent' who could be England's left-back for the next decade.
When discussing Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jack Grealish's absences, Carragher noted that Alexander-Arnold's recent return from injury meant he probably didn't expect selection. However, he acknowledged that consistent omissions represent a 'worry' for the Liverpool defender's World Cup prospects.
Regarding Grealish, Carragher suggested Tuchel has opted for younger, pacier options like Anthony Gordon in attacking midfield roles, where England currently has an abundance of talent. Nevertheless, he emphasised that with significant football still to be played before next year's World Cup, both players have time to force their way back into contention.
Carragher's Life-Saving Campaign
Separately, Carragher is spearheading a major awareness campaign with Sky Bet and the British Heart Foundation. The Every Minute Matters campaign aims to equip grassroots football clubs with CPR and defibrillation skills through a month-long awareness drive.
'Too many people still think you have to be a medical professional to step in, but that's simply not true,' Carragher explained. He urged everyone involved in grassroots football to take 15 minutes to learn lifesaving skills using the BHF's free online RevivR tool.
