Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ollie Watkins have been omitted from the latest England squad. Thomas Tuchel explained the decision during a press conference.
“This wasn't an easy decision, neither for Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ollie Watkins nor Luke Shaw, but these tough decisions are part of the job. We've chosen Jarell Quansah, Tino Livramento and Djed Spence for the right-back position, and this was a decision based purely on sporting merit. At the same time, it's also about giving recognition to Dominic Solanke and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, whom I don't know as well as Ollie Watkins. I feel I have a very clear understanding of what Ollie is capable of, so I wanted to see what the other two players can do.”
“I know this was a difficult decision, I know they are big names with exceptional abilities and impressive career records. However, the right-backs we've called up now have slightly different profiles from Alexander-Arnold, and the fact is that our performances between September and November were better than when Alexander-Arnold was involved. I've faced Alexander-Arnold many times during my club coaching career and suffered a lot because of him on several occasions. I'm well aware of his strengths and what he can bring to the team.”
“As for Solanke and Calvert-Lewin, I think they have similar characteristics. Harry Kane won't join the training camp right at the beginning, so I wanted to see how both of them perform and learn more about Solanke. Calvert-Lewin has had an excellent season at Leeds United, showing great form. Moreover, both of them are good penalty takers, and I want to see what they can do and if they can fill the void. I hope to learn more about them, so let's wait and see. They will compete for playing time in the match against Uruguay, and they are excited about being called up to the national team. They understand the current situation, which helps the team.”
