England’s surprise World Cup bolters? Calvert-Lewin, Miley, and Mainoo make late cases | OneFootball

Thomas Tuchel will know the bulk of the squad that he wants to take to the World Cup next summer, but each run-up to major tournaments often produces players who bolt late to make the squad.

At Euro 2024, Adam Wharton forced himself into the squad after only arriving at Crystal Palace from Championship club Blackburn Rovers in the January transfer window.

Could anyone, uncapped or overlooked, get themselves on the plane this summer?

Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Daniel Farke has backed Dominic Calvert-Lewin for an England recall, following the forward’s return to form at Leeds.

Calvert-Lewin has been reenergised following a fresh start in the summer, signing for Leeds fromEverton on a free transfer. After just three league goals last season, he’s hit nine for the season and counting.

The 28-year-old headed into Christmas after scoring in five consecutivePremier League games and is producing his best football for several seasons.

Harry Kane aside, England’s number nine options look thin. Ollie Watkins has struggled for goals this season, while injuries have prevented Dominic Solanke from stating his case. Calvert-Lewin, who has scored four times in 13 caps, has not played for England since 2021.

Danny Welbeck

Another centre-forward option for England, who could come back after a long time away. Danny Welbeck has had somewhat of an Indian Summer atBrighton, where he’s scored eight goals in the Premier League this season.

Welbeck might be 35, but few forwards eligible for England have been as consistent this season. His experience could be useful from the bench, while he boasts a fine record for the Three Lions, with 16 goals in 42 caps. The last of those, however, was won over seven years ago.

Lewis Miley

Lewis Miley is quietly having an excellent season atNewcastle United. The 19-year-old’s route to regular football was blocked last season by a talented Magpies’ midfield, but he’s impressed since an introduction into the team at right-back.

In an unfamiliar position, Miley has looked natural, and ranks fifth in thePremier League this season for percentage of aerial duels won (70.6%), while leading the league for successful take-on percentage (83.3%).

Miley rarely looks fazed and his display of versatility will increase his appeal to Thomas Tuchel and his team.

James Garner

David Moyes has backed James Garner for England, amid the midfielder's impressive campaign at Everton. Garner's career with the club was at a crossroads last summer but he's become indispensable to the side this season.

The 23-year-old won the u-21 European Championship with England in 2023 and has been capped right through the age groups. He's knocking on the door of the senior squad, with a March call-up possible based on his current form.

Kobbie Mainoo

Kobbie Mainoo was one of England’s best performers during their run to the final of Euro 2024, with the midfielder breaking into the side during the tournament and impressing.

Mainoo’s meteoric rise took him from first-team debut to European Championship final in just a few months, but his career has stalled since. His last cap for England came in September 2024, having fallen out of favour under former manager Ruben Amorim atManchester United.

Amorim's exited has lifted his chances of making the squad. Recalled at the weekend, the 20-year-old was outstanding asManchester United beat Manchester City 20 at Old Trafford. Don't count him out for a place on the plane.

Liam Delap

Liam Delap has endured a stop-start season atChelsea, following his £30m move from Ipswich in the summer. Injuries have limited his impact, but a strong second half to the campaign could propel him into England contention.

The 22-year-old scored 12 league goals in a relegated side last season and, arguably, looks the most natural heir to Harry Kane.

With Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney turning 30 before the tournament comes around, taking Delap to theWorld Cup to learn from Kane might not be a bad thing.