LONDON — Thomas Tuchel has made clear that Phil Foden still has work to do before England's World Cup squad is chosen, saying the Manchester City attacker is not assured of a place.
Foden, 25, started England's friendly games in the final camp before Tuchel names his squad for the tournament. He was used as a number 10 against Uruguay and then in a false nine role against Japan at Wembley Stadium.
England's camp ended without a win. Tuchel's side drew 1-1 with Uruguay before losing 1-0 to Japan at Wembley Stadium.
Tuchel praised Foden's work during the camp but said the performances had not fully carried into the matches. The German coach described him as “excellent in camp” while adding that “he struggles to show it on the pitch.”
Asked about Foden's place in the squad, Tuchel was direct: “Well, it’s not a guarantee that he will come.”
Cole Palmer also failed to make a strong case against Japan, leaving England with selection questions in attacking midfield. Morgan Rogers and Jude Bellingham are also options in that area, increasing the pressure on Palmer and Foden before Tuchel settles on his World Cup group.