Thomas Tuchel has warned Jude Bellingham faces a fight to secure a starting place at the World Cup, despite his status as one of England’s stars.
The Real Madrid midfielder has started only four matches under Tuchel, who has leaned on Morgan Rogers throughout qualifying. Tuchel insists he has “14 or 15 proper starters,” with Bellingham among them but not guaranteed.
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Once ever-present under Gareth Southgate, Bellingham’s rhythm has been disrupted by injuries and strained relations with Tuchel. Yet his strong display in the warm-up win over New Zealand, where he captained the side after half-time, has lifted hopes he is back in form.
England begin their campaign against Croatia on 17 June in Dallas.
