Thomas Tuchel told to start Newcastle United star at 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Thomas Tuchel Encouraged to Make Bold Selection Call Ahead of 2026 World Cup

As 2025 draws to an end, we’re now just a matter of months away from the 2026 World Cup in the USA.

Under new head coach Thomas Tuchel, England’s hopes are high after a flawless World Cup Qualifying campaign where they didn’t concede a single goal.

The former Chelsea boss has a number of key decisions to make though, in terms of his travelling squad and what his strongest starting eleven is.

Former Man United title winner Paul Parker recent spoke exclusively to EPL Index and shared his thoughts on a few of the key talking points…

Anthony Gordon

The Newcastle United forward has had a frustrating season so far, managing just two goals and one assist in 13 Premier League appearances. That form has left him on the outskirts of discussions over the World Cup squad.

Especially with the impressive form of the likes of Phil Foden and Cole Palmer. Parker also points out Arsenal’s Eberechi Eze as a potential option out wide.

“I wouldn’t be starting Anthony Gordon at the World Cup,” began Parker, “If Eberechi Eze isn’t playing in the number ten, then I would have him out on the left.”

“When he come on at Wembley on the left side, he was deserving of man of the match,” continued Parker, “He can go and do that role really well.”

“Gordon hasn’t had a great season. He has been on the bench a few times and has scored a couple of goals from the spot,” said Parker, “I don’t think he should be starting for England, especially if he is going to wear that hairband!”

Photo IMAGO

Lewis Hall

In contrast, Parker was full of praise for Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall. Despite battling with a couple of injury struggles, Hall has been one of the standout performers for Eddie Howe’s side this season.

Tuchel faces a major dilemma at left-back, with no standout name in that position.

“The left-back position is a huge problem for Tuchel,” said Parker, “Right-back is easy because Reece James starts there and is the best by a country mile.”

“At left-back, he needs to pick someone who is going to be playing regular football,” continued Parker, “My mind goes to Lewis Hall, who actually used to be a midfielder in Chelsea’s academy.”

“He’s very comfortable on the ball and will add some balance to the side. He’s a strong pick,” said Parker, “He isn’t scared of pressure and has picked up solid game time at a decent club.”

Photo: IMAGO

“Ezri Konsa could add some value there, whilst there’s also the likes of Myles Lewis-Skelly and Nico O’Reilly who are starting to impress at Arsenal and Man City.”