England's World Cup lineup is taking shape, but could Dean Henderson force his way in? Here's a breakdown of the winners and losers as the goalkeeper's outstanding performance in Albania gives Thomas Tuchel food for thought.
Winners and Losers: Air Albania Stadium Edition
Thomas Tuchel: The German coach has hit the target with every shot, propelling England to a flawless World Cup qualifying campaign. In just 11 months on the job, he's left his mark, becoming the first England coach to oversee a perfect qualifying run. Tuchel's experimental changes and trust in his most trusted players have paid off, and his ultra-demanding personality is shaping a winning culture.
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Dean Henderson: The Crystal Palace goalkeeper delivered a flawless display, making crucial saves and a bold move to secure a clean sheet. Henderson's performance is a warning to Jordan Pickford, proving he's a serious contender for the starting spot.
Marcus Rashford: Rashford's return to the squad is impressive. He's become a reliable attacking player, contributing to England's success with his goal contributions.
Losers and Near-Losers
Eberechi Eze: Eze struggled as a starter, but his effectiveness as a substitute is evident. He needs to build on his recent success from the bench.
Morgan Rogers: Rogers' pressure to perform with Bellingham's return was evident. His underwhelming display and lack of playing time suggest he's slipped down the pecking order.
The Big Question: Can England Beat the Best?
The real test of England's prowess will come at the World Cup, possibly in the quarter-finals. Cynics will point to past disappointments, but Tuchel's demanding personality and the team's hunger to win in Albania show a promising culture. The debate over England's ability to beat top sides will continue until the tournament begins, leaving fans eager to see how Tuchel's strategy unfolds.
