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Thomas Tuchel's decision to ignore Jude Bellingham's desire to be included in his latest England squad is proof the head coach sees a broader picture stretching beyond the Real Madrid phenomenon.

The 22-year-old, who famously mouthed "who else?" when netting a spectacular stoppage-time overhead kick as England beat Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now understands there are alternative choices Tuchel will evaluate.

It is nonsensical to suggest Bellingham's exclusion is evidence Tuchel considers him as dispensable, but it indicates the German will not be in thrall to any player, or yield to the whims of his star players as his predecessors - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - previously did.

The era of automatic recalls for the top players by starstruck managers and coaches are over under Tuchel. Reputations amount to nothing. Performances do.

Fitness Considerations

His decision is also based on sound common sense, with Bellingham beginning only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, after shoulder surgery.

Bellingham has also come on three times as a substitute, but this was not enough for Tuchel to take note of his desire to be in the group who play Wales in a Wembley exhibition match before travelling to Latvia for a World Cup qualifier.

Previous Controversies

Tuchel's dynamic with Bellingham has already created headlines, particularly when he confessed after the 3-1 loss to Senegal at the City Ground in June that his mother sometimes perceived the player's on-field behaviour as "unpleasant".

He later expressed regret, insisting he used the word "accidentally" and has been quick to commend the midfielder.

Tuchel, however, has been in no rush to return Bellingham to the squad, despite a reputation in recent years which has had him viewed as the fulcrum of England's team.

Coach's Viewpoint

The German stated Bellingham had "desired selection" and that "he is a special player, and for special players there can always be special rules."

But Tuchel is determined England's success will not be determined by whether Bellingham is present or not, especially with next summer's World Cup as consideration.

"Do we become a better team with Jude? Yes," said Tuchel. "But I told you before, what do we do if Jude is injured before the World Cup? Do we just cancel?"

The notion of England going to the World Cup without a fit Bellingham is inconceivable, but Tuchel has established a marker by making it clear not every plan he devises will be dependent on him being in the team.

Team Strength

Tuchel, importantly, is working and choosing from a situation of strength after the impressive 5-0 win away to Serbia in England's last World Cup qualifier.

He has demonstrated he will acknowledge loyalty after others impressed so much in Belgrade, demonstrating that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply walk back into his squad, regardless of their reputation.

Tuchel warned "there are absolutely no guarantees" for any player - and his Bellingham decision confirms it.

His comments that Bellingham wanted to be in the squad, but was then not included, were informative in this context.

Team Chemistry

Bellingham may be disappointed following his conversation with Tuchel, but the head coach has other matters - and players - to focus on.

Tuchel was hugely impressed with the atmosphere in England's squad, which he said was the best since he was appointed, stating to the most impressive display since he took over when Serbia were overwhelmed in Belgrade.

He has no desire to disturb that unity, even if that means Bellingham having to be patient.

Rising Players

Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson performed well against Serbia and in the earlier win against Andorra at Villa Park, while Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers shone in the number 10 role that might have been occupied by Bellingham had he been available in Belgrade.

Interestingly, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently recovered from a hamstring injury, but is recalled to occupy the opening left by injury to his Gunners' team-mate Noni Madueke.

Additional Omissions

The other big talking point in Tuchel's squad was his decision not to include Manchester City's Phil Foden - back to his best after an inconsistent season last term - and Everton forward Jack Grealish, who has been exceptional since joining on loan from Manchester City.

Foden has generated 18 chances and netted five goals in all competitions this season, while Grealish has created the most opportunities in the Premier League this season with 17, leading to four assists.

Like Bellingham, there is no immediate route back for the pair despite a clamour for their inclusion - once again demonstrating Tuchel was highly satisfied with what he saw at the last international camp.

World Cup Preparation

He insisted all camps leading up the World Cup, with England needing only five points to secure qualification, would be about developing competition and molding his squad as well as outcomes.

The latest England squad demonstrates Tuchel will be faithful to his word.