England manager Thomas Tuchel has explained why Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham has not been selected for the upcoming matches against Wales and Latvia.
The midfielder, who has been recovering from physical issues in recent weeks, will stay in Madrid to continue his fitness work during the October international break.
This decision comes as good news for Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso, who will have one of his most important players available for training.
Explaining his absence
Bellingham’s absence from international duty gives him more time to recover fully and regain rhythm after a stop-start beginning to the season.
When asked about leaving Bellingham out, Tuchel explained his thinking clearly,
“He is a special player and for special players, there can always be special rules.
“But we decided to stick with the straightforward decision of inviting the same group,” said Tuchel as reported by the BBC.
“Jude always deserves to be here. There is also the situation that he has not quite gathered his full rhythm again at Real Madrid.
“He has not finished a full match. He wanted to be called up. We had a phone call.”
No issues between the two
There had been some speculation about Tuchel’s relationship with Bellingham, but the England coach was quick to dismiss it. He insisted,
“No. There is also no problem with [Bellingham], Phil Foden or Jack Grealish, either. There is no personal problem.”
Tuchel has previously admitted that he crossed the line with his comments about Bellingham’s behaviour on the pitch, which he once called repulsive.
However, he soon made amends after and has since been consistent in praising the midfielder.
Highlighting the value Bellingham brings, Tuchel added, “Are we a better team with Jude? Yes.
“But I told you before, what do we do if Jude is injured before the World Cup? Do we just cancel?” he concluded.
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