Tuchel weighs Bellingham, Saka and Stones ahead of England's World Cup opener

Thomas Tuchel has several big decisions left before England face Croatia in their World Cup opener, with Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and John Stones all pushing for starts. The final friendly against Costa Rica gave him plenty to think about, and he refused to reveal whether the same XI will begin next Wednesday.

The biggest call is at number 10, where Bellingham and Morgan Rogers are competing for one place. Rogers has been first choice recently, but Bellingham looked sharp against Costa Rica, creating chances and driving England forward with his usual power and skill. On this evidence, leaving him out would be a major decision.

Tuchel may only be able to start both if he shifts Rogers wide, but that would create another selection puzzle. For now, the battle between the two remains one of the main talking points of England’s build-up.

On the flanks, Saka is expected to start on the right if he is fit enough. Tuchel has managed his minutes carefully because of an Achilles issue, but he still appears to be the first-choice right-sided attacker. On the left, the choice looks to be between Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford, both of whom have made strong cases in the warm-up matches.

Gordon impressed against Costa Rica by stretching defenders, winning and scoring a penalty, while Rashford was one of England’s brighter performers against New Zealand. That leaves Tuchel with a genuine dilemma, especially because both players offer different qualities and both have done enough to stay in the conversation.

Harry Kane remains central to everything. Tuchel has allowed him to roam far deeper than a traditional centre-forward, using his passing range and intelligence to link play from almost anywhere on the pitch. Kane’s freedom could be one of England’s biggest weapons if they need to unlock difficult opponents later in the tournament.

At the back, Stones has strengthened his claim for a starting place after playing 63 minutes against Costa Rica. His class and experience make him one of Tuchel’s most trusted defenders if fully fit, and he is likely to be considered for the Croatia match. The main question is who partners him, with Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa both in the frame.

Tuchel’s tone after the game suggested he is keeping his options open rather than settling on a final team too early. England’s final selection will probably come down to balance, fitness and form, but Bellingham, Saka and Stones all made a strong case in Orlando.