Bellingham and Foden earn recall for World Cup double

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has confirmed Jude Bellingham’s return to the national squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania, stating the midfielder “has to be in the squad” after his impressive reaction to being overlooked.

- SIMON PEACH

The announcement also sees Manchester City’s Phil Foden recalled and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott earn his maiden call-up.

Tuchel had controversially omitted Bellingham from last month’s squad, citing a lack of rhythm and a preference for players who performed well in September.

This decision had prompted questions about the manager’s relationship with the Real Madrid star, particularly after Tuchel’s earlier apology for comments made in June about Bellingham’s on-field behaviour.

However, Bellingham’s subsequent performances for Real Madrid have evidently swayed the England boss.

“There was a decision to be made. [Jude] accepted the decision, and he did what he does best,” Tuchel explained, also confirming the inclusion of uncapped Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott.

“He competed on the highest level, and he showed that he deserves and has to be in the squad. So that’s why he is in the squad.”