Gary Cahill exclusive: Former Chelsea captain names his wildcard World Cup pick over Max Dowman | OneFootball

Clamour building for young Arsenal star to make Thomas Tuchel’s England squad

The youngster has made waves during a breakthrough season for Mikel Arteta’s side, and last month became the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history at the age of 16 years and 73 days.

There is no shortage of attacking options available to England head coach Thomas Tuchel, though, and plenty are of the belief that this summer’s tournament comes too early for it to be beneficial for player or manager.

Max Dowman and Bukayo Saka

Getty

Speaking about the chances of the teenager making the squad, Cahill, who featured at three major tournaments for England, told Standard Sport: “I can’t really see that.

But Cahill could see there being a wildcard pick — one which has already scored 16 goals for England.

Danny Welbeck has been in fine form for Brighton this season

Getty

Danny Welbeck, who last played for England in September 2018, has five goals in his last eight games for Brighton.

Only Joe Hart played alongside Welbeck in more of the Brighton veteran’s 42 England appearances than Cahill, and said of his in-form 35-year-old former team-mate: “He is timing his run unbelievably well.”

Speaking at the launch event of the 2026 World Cup Panini sticker collection, Cahill added: “Another player I feel will have a big impact is Nico O’Reilly, who has stepped up massively with big moments at Manchester City.

“A tremendous season, very versatile. I don’t think he is going to be a shock pick, but he could have a bigger impact than many people may think.”