England: The World Cup squad dilemmas facing Thomas Tuchel

Some of Tuchel’s biggest dilemmas have been in defence, where there have been injury and fitness issues.

Centre-back John Stones, in normal circumstances, would have been one of the first names on the England manager’s list.

When he accepted the job, Tuchel identified captain Harry Kane, Declan Rice and Stones as the key members of his leadership group.

The German, during the opening months of his reign, would stay in regular contact with the trio via text message – assuring them of how important they were to his plans.

A fully fit Stones is a nailed-on starter for England this summer. But the 31-year-old has made just four Premier League starts this season.

Central defenders Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa look certain to make the plane to North America, while Harry Maguire’s international recall in March will increase the Manchester United man’s hopes of a place.

Beyond that; Jarell Quansah’s versatility could count in his favour, while Trevoh Chalobah and Fikayo Tomori were both included in the squad for March’s friendlies against Uruguay and Japan – but face an uphill struggle to make the final 26.

Levi Colwill, who has only recently returned from a long-term cruciate knee ligament injury, was included in Tuchel’s extended 55-man party for the tournament but is unlikely to make the full squad.

At right-back, all eyes – as ever – will be on whether Trent Alexander-Arnold makes the cut. On the face of it, the Real Madrid man should fear the worst.

He wasn’t included in the squad for March’s internationals despite Tuchel selecting more than 30 players in total.

Last year, Tuchel said Quansah – a central defender – was ahead of him in the pecking order, so it doesn’t necessarily look good.

That said, Tuchel has issues at right-back. Reece James, who is expected to start the tournament as first choice in the position, has endured an injury disrupted campaign.

Tino Livramento would also usually be selected. But the Newcastle full-back hasn’t played since mid-April because of a thigh injury.

The doubt over Livramento’s fitness, coupled with the expected exclusion of Arsenal’s Ben White – who is recovering from a serious knee injury – could yet open the door for Alexander-Arnold.

And with England anticipating the majority of the ball in their Group L matches against Croatia, Ghana and Panama, Alexander-Arnold’s strengths in possession may suit Tuchel’s side during the early stages of the tournament.

Tottenham’s Djed Spence could also be an option, having played four times under Tuchel.

Luke Shaw’s run into form has given Tuchel with a welcome headache as he finalises his squad. Nico O’Reilly’s outstanding form for Manchester City means he will almost certainly be selected, with Newcastle duo Dan Burn and Lewis Hall also hoping to get the nod.