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Tuchel breaks silence after Bellingham omitted from England squad

England are looking to maintain their dominant record over Wales as neighbourly bragging rights are put on the line at Wembley.

The Three Lions have won every meeting with the Welsh since 1984 and while today’s clash will be friendly by name, it’ll hardly be that by nature as Craig Bellamy’s side look to end such a dire run.

Thomas Tuchel’s side go into this game in high spirits after the German finally saw his vision come to life in September, following up a drab 2-0 win over Andorra with their emphatic 5-0 thumping of Serbia in Belgrade.

The England boss has stuck with basically the same squad that he used last month as he looks to build on his side’s progress, but will have to deal with the absence of star striker and captain Harry Kane, who is out with a knock.

England vs Wales talking points

Belgium the bigger game for Wales

Wales have only ever won once at Wembley – thanks to a Leighton James penalty in 1977 – and there is no doubt upsetting England in their own backyard would lead to celebrations from Aberdare to Anglesey.

But playing Tuchel’s side is complicated by the fact Wales have a massive World Cup qualifier four days later. Group favourites Belgium visit Cardiff with Wales knowing anything other than victory there will leave them in the play-offs next March.

Belgium is a far bigger game than England for Wales, and Bellamy’s team selection at Wembley may need to reflect that in some departments.

England vs Wales talking points

No Jude Bellingham

Jude Bellingham will be a notable absentee at Wembley after his omission from Thomas Tuchel’s squad.

The Real Madrid star is back in action after summer shoulder surgery and was widely expected to return to the group having missed September’s camp.

But England’s performances in Bellingham’s absence persuaded Tuchel to keep faith with the same group and leave the 22-year-old in Spain. That means Morgan Rogers will again have the chance to strengthen his grip on the No.10 position in a game where England are expected to dominate.

It is unthinkable that Bellingham will not be on the plane to the World Cup next summer but his position as England’s golden boy is maybe more fragile than before.

Mike Jones9 October 2025 18:30