There are certain names that require no debate when discussing England’s plans for the next World Cup. The likes of Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Declan Rice are guaranteed selections if fit and will be included in Thomas Tuchel’s 26-man squad. Their places are secure and are not part of the wider selection discussion.
The focus instead falls on the players operating just outside that group. As Premier League form shifts week by week, shaping conversations and even influencing markets such as fast in-play odds, Tuchel has room to reward recent improvement, but places will be limited, and competition remains strong. Final selections are expected to be based on reliability, availability and sustained performance rather than reputation.
The following players are among those pushing hardest to make the cut.
Kobbie Mainoo
Kobbie Mainoo’s season has shifted in recent weeks. After finding himself repeatedly on the bench under Ruben Amorim, his game time has increased, and he has begun to find his rhythm in midfield again. With more regular starts, he has looked composed and assured in possession.
His resurgence comes at a good time. Mainoo featured alongside Declan Rice during the 2024 European Championship, showing he can perform in major tournament matches rather than simply filling a squad role.
With minutes building again at club level and international experience behind him, Mainoo has a strong case for inclusion in the World Cup squad.
James Garner
James Garner’s progress has been steady, putting him firmly in the conversation. Playing regularly for Evertonhe has become a trusted figure in midfield and is often relied upon during tough spells of matches, including taking responsibility from set pieces.
Garner also brings tournament experience. He was part of Lee Carsley’s England Under-21 squad that won the European Championship in 2023, a competition that tested players across a tight schedule. While he is not a headline selection, his week-in, week-out performances and familiarity with England setups boost his chances of a World Cup squad place.
Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer’s season began slowly after an injury limited his early involvement at Chelsea and reduced his influence. That period raised doubts over whether he would return to his previous level.
Since regaining full fitness, Palmer has re-established himself as key to Chelsea’s attack. His recent hat-trick against Wolves marked a clear return to form and showed his quality in front of goal.
He also brings tournament experience from the European Championship, where he emerged as one of Gareth Southgate’s most effective substitutes. That includes scoring the equaliser against Spain in the final. With strong club form and proven international impact, Palmer has made a compelling case for World Cup selection.
Lewis Hall
Lewis Hall has benefited from regular minutes and responsibility at Newcastle. He has handled defensive duties with maturity and coped well against top opposition. England’s depth at left-back has not always been settled, which provides an opening for a player showing reliability each week.
Nico O’Reilly
Nico O’Reilly has impressed for Manchester City this season, taking his chances and delivering strong performances in a side competing at the top of the Premier League. Earning regular minutes in that environment has helped his case.
Those displays were rewarded with a senior England call-up for the World Cup qualifiers, showing he is in the picture. If he maintains this level, he will remain a serious contender for a squad place.
Tino Livramento
Tino Livramento’s form for Newcastle United has brought him into England contention. He has been a regular presence at club level and carried that into the World Cup qualifiers, where he played a key role in England remaining unbeaten without conceding a goal.
He will face competition from other emerging prospects at right-back. However, his recent club form and international minutes give him an advantage as the selection picture develops.
