World Cup 2026: Who is pushing for late England call-up?

Luke Shaw won the last of his 34 England caps in the Euro 2024 final defeat by Spain.

That the Manchester United full-back missed the vast majority of the 2024-25 season through injury – featuring in only seven league games – has certainly not helped his cause.

In his absence, Lewis Hall and Nico O’Reilly have emerged as strong options at left-back while Myles Lewis-Skelly also impressed when given an opportunity.

However, with Shaw back to fitness and, crucially for a player who has been plagued by injuries throughout his career, has managed to remain available throughout the season, starting every league game for United.

His smartly-taken goal – his first in the Premier League since January 2023 – against Nottingham Forest was a timely reminder of the former Southampton man’s quality.

After such a long time out of the picture, a recall for Shaw would be something of a surprise but having played a key role in helping England to two major tournament finals, that sort of experience might be very appealing to Tuchel.

“I haven’t got much sway in the matter at all, but I certainly think so,” United boss Carrick said when asked if Shaw deserved an international recall.

“Again, the consistency, just what he’s capable of doing. The performance, the experience, his strengths, his attributes that he’s got.

“He’s a fantastic full-back. I think between them, I think [Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire] have done their chances no harm recently for sure.”