Thomas Tuchel 'delighted' to have Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden back

Thomas Tuchel has named his England squad to face Serbia and Albania in the World Cup qualifiers, having recalled Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden, who were absent in the October call-up.

Real Madrid superstar, Bellingham, missed out on the October squad with the German manager citing various fitness reasons.

However, an “unintentional statement” by the 52-year-old almost caused a problem in the media, raising some concerns after the player had confirmed his availability for England duty.

The controversy surrounding Bellingham’s omission intensified, especially after Tuchel apologised for calling the player’s on-field behaviour “repulsive.”

Manchester City forward Phil Foden’s inclusion also remained uncertain after he missed the call-up in October, but he has now received his first call-up since March.

However, after a consistent run of form for both players in their respective clubs, it was no secret, but a high expectation of being integrated back into the squad by the England manager.

Tuchel, speaking to the media after the announcement of the squad, expressed his joy in having both Bellingham and Foden back with the Three Lions.

“We are delighted they are back.

“The contribution of both of them to their clubs lately was immense. They score regularly decisive goals. We’re delighted they’re in shape, in form and back with us.

“Jude comes back in the No10 position. I think that’s his best position. One of his key strengths is to score from this position; he scores goals a No. 9 could score – tap-ins in the six-yard box.

“They seem easy goals, but to arrive in this position at the right moment is a key strength. We will try to find space for him as a No. 10 to arrive in the No. 9 positions to score for us.

“Phil, where he played against Dortmund, is where I see him. Close to the opponents box, a mix between a No9 and No10. Phil scores from the 18-yard box, he’s on the half-turn then assists, he’s in the pockets.

“The main thing for Phil is he gets a role in the central part of the pitch. I don’t see him as a winger. A central role brings out his strengths the most. He will contribute as a 9.5 10.5, very fluid.”