Ahead of England’s World Cup opener next week, one of the biggest questions surrounding Tuchel’s side has been who will occupy the influential No.10 role, with Bellingham and Morgan Rogers emerging as the leading contenders.
The debate intensified in recent weeks as Rogers’ impressive performances provided Tuchel with a genuine alternative to the Real Madrid midfielder.
However, England’s 3-0 victory over Costa Rica on Wednesday may have offered the clearest indication yet of the German coach’s plans.
During his first media briefing after arriving in the United States, Tuchel revealed he already had “14 or 15” players in mind for the opening match against Croatia, suggesting much of his starting XI was already decided.
While the England boss has naturally avoided confirming his lineup publicly, there is growing belief within the camp that the side that started against Costa Rica closely resembles the team set to take the field in the World Cup opener.
If that proves to be the case, Bellingham appears to have edged ahead of Rogers in the battle for the attacking midfield position.
The 22-year-old remains one of England’s most trusted performers and has repeatedly delivered on the international stage. His experience of playing under intense scrutiny at Real Madrid has further strengthened the argument for his inclusion.
Rogers, meanwhile, has done little wrong during his rise through the England setup and has emerged as one of the squad’s most exciting attacking options. However, the latest indications suggest he may have to settle for a place among the substitutes when England begin their World Cup campaign.
Tuchel is expected to finalise his selection over the coming days, but all signs currently point towards Bellingham being handed the responsibility of linking midfield and attack against Croatia.
