Tuchel has made some bold selection calls for England’s World Cup squad, placing his faith in the recoveries of Tino Livramento, Djed Spence and John Stones despite serious fitness concerns. With fully fit alternatives left at home, the England boss is gambling on experience, trust and timely recoveries ahead of football’s biggest stage. 

England manager Thomas Tuchel announced last week the 26-man squad he’ll be taking to the World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada. 

However, questions have been raised about the fitness and injury concerns surrounding several individuals in the squad. 

Most notably, Tino Livramento, Djed Spence and John Stones have been included over the likes of Lewis Hall, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Harry Maguire, who are all currently playing at full fitness. 

Tino Livramento has made 24 appearances for Newcastle this 2025/26 season, earning 19 starts. In addition, Tuchel has called upon him four times for England, where he has accumulated 121 minutes. 

However, Livramento suffered a muscular thigh injury two months ago and hasn’t played since the 18th April. 

Despite this, he has received the call-up and appears likely to recover in time for the start of the tournament. 

Many people have been shocked that the young full-back has been selected ahead of other options. However, it shows how much faith Tuchel has in his recovery process. 

Djed Spence has reportedly broken his jaw, and there are question marks over whether he will feature for Spurs in their final Premier League game of the season. If he does play, he will be wearing a protective mask. 

Although football is not played with your jaw, the mental adjustments Spence will have to endure over the next two weeks will be incredibly demanding. 

Tuchel clearly believes in his recovery process and, to the disbelief of many fans, Spence will be on the plane to the World Cup.

The most interesting inclusion is England veteran John Stones, who has earned 87 caps for his nation. 

That said, Stones has played just eight Premier League minutes this season due to persistent calf and foot issues. 

With only four starts this campaign – three of which came in the FA Cup – Stones is, without doubt, a huge gamble from Thomas Tuchel. 

For England to navigate a gruelling tournament schedule, managing the conditioning of these three defensive linchpins will be a priority to prepare them for the world stage.