Head coach Thomas Tuchel has made his first key decision ahead of England’s 2026 World Cup campaign.
Tuchel was always expected to pick his strongest line-up in England’s final warm-up game against Costa Rica.
The only major absence from the line-up is Bukayo Saka, who is recovering from a lingering Achilles injury.
Tuchel’s biggest dilemma was whether to start Morgan Rogers or Jude Bellingham in the attacking midfield position.
It appears he has settled that debate by selecting Bellingham for the Costa Rica game on Wednesday night.
Jude Bellingham starts for England vs Costa Rica before World Cup
Rogers emerged as one of England’s top players during the 2025/26 season, starting more often than not under Tuchel.
He contributed 10 goals and six assists in the Premier League for Aston Villa, who finished fourth and won the Europa League.
Meanwhile, Rogers’ style of play suits England perfectly, as he is willing to run beyond Harry Kane when he drops deeper.
Even though most supporters would prefer Bellingham to start, many expected Tuchel to put his faith in the Villa man instead.
The former Chelsea manager has even left Bellingham out of previous England squads, suggesting he is not his biggest fan.
However, that narrative has been turned upside down with Tuchel’s team selection on the eve of the 2026 World Cup.
The German has trusted Bellingham to start in the Three Lions’ final match before the tournament starts on Thursday.
The Real Madrid star will play ahead of Declan Rice and Elliott Anderson in an exceptional three-man midfield.
He will be hoping to nail down his place in the starting XI for England’s World Cup opener against Croatia next week.
Every England fan knows what Bellingham is capable of — his crucial goal against Slovakia at the 2024 Euros will never be forgotten.
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