Alan Shearer has tipped Myles Lewis-Skelly to be one of the high-profile omissions from Thomas Tuchel's England World Cup squad. The Arsenal teenager scored the first goal of the Tuchel era against Albania in March but has since been left out of recent international squads as his minutes at club level dwindled.
Lewis-Skelly's Resurgence at Arsenal
Despite a mid-season dip, the 18-year-old has enjoyed a resurgent end to the campaign under Mikel Arteta. He displaced Martin Zubimendi and started in central midfield alongside Declan Rice in crucial end-of-season fixtures. His versatility could be an asset for England, but Shearer doubts it will be enough to secure a place in the squad announced on Friday.
Shearer's Assessment
Speaking to Metro, Shearer explained: 'Tuchel has used Hall and Livramento in a left-back position as well, so my guess is that two of the three will go. Nico O'Reilly I think will definitely go and then it will be one of either Livramento or Lewis Hall.' On Lewis-Skelly, he added: 'I think he's not played a lot of football this season, he's just come back into the fold, into the midfield, and he's been exceptional. But whether that's been enough to get him into the left-back position or midfield, I don't think so.'
Maguire's Impending Omission
Harry Maguire appears certain to miss out, having expressed his disappointment on social media. Shearer believes Dan Burn's extra time in England camps under Tuchel may have given him the edge over Maguire. 'I think Konsa and Guehi are guaranteed. He'll take John Stones because of experience. Then it's between Dan and Harry, and I'd guess he might opt for Dan because he's had him in camp and knows what he brings.'
Tuchel's Indifference to Public Opinion
Reports suggest high-profile names like Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Morgan Gibbs-White could also miss out. Shearer believes Tuchel will ignore any media or fan backlash: 'I don't think he's bothered. The one good thing about Thomas Tuchel is that he won't be bothered by what people think. He's too experienced to worry about different opinions; he thinks only his opinion matters.'
Alan Shearer was speaking at the launch of Betfair's World Cup campaign. For more stories, check our sport page.
