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Thomas Tuchel's choice to ignore Jude Bellingham's desire to be included in his latest England squad demonstrates the head coach sees a broader picture extending beyond the Real Madrid superstar.

The young midfielder, who notoriously uttered "who else?" when netting a spectacular stoppage-time overhead kick as England defeated Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now understands there are other options Tuchel will evaluate.

It is illogical to propose Bellingham's omission is evidence Tuchel considers him as dispensable, but it indicates the German will not be subservient to any player, or yield to the whims of his biggest names as his predecessors - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - did.

The era of guaranteed selections for the biggest names by impressionable managers and coaches are finished under Tuchel. Past achievements count for nothing. Performances do.

Medical Factors

His ruling is also based on solid common sense, with Bellingham beginning only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid, after arm operation.

Bellingham has also appeared three times as a substitute, but this was insufficient for Tuchel to take note of his wish to be in the group who play Wales in a Wembley exhibition match before journeying to Latvia for a World Cup qualifier.

Previous Controversies

Tuchel's relationship with Bellingham has already generated headlines, particularly when he confessed after the 3-1 loss to Senegal at the City Ground in June that his mother sometimes viewed the player's on-field conduct as "repulsive".

He later publicly apologised, maintaining he used the word "accidentally" and has been quick to praise the midfielder.

Tuchel, however, has been in no rush to return Bellingham to the squad, despite a status in recent years which has had him regarded as the fulcrum of England's team.

Coach's Viewpoint

The German stated Bellingham had "wanted to be called up" and that "he remains a special player, and for special players there can always be special rules."

But Tuchel is resolved England's fortunes will not be determined by whether Bellingham is present or not, especially with next summer's World Cup in mind.

"Are we a better team with Jude? Yes," commented Tuchel. "But I told you before, what do we do if Jude is unfit before the World Cup? Do we just cancel?"

The notion of England going to the World Cup without a healthy Bellingham is unthinkable, but Tuchel has established a precedent by making it clear not every strategy he formulates will be reliant on him being in the team.

Team Depth

Tuchel, crucially, is operating and selecting from a position of strength after the impressive 5-0 win away to Serbia in England's last World Cup qualifier.

He has demonstrated he will acknowledge loyalty after others impressed so much in Belgrade, demonstrating that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply walk back into his squad, regardless of their reputation.

Tuchel warned "there are definitely no guarantees" for any player - and his Bellingham decision confirms it.

His remarks that Bellingham wanted to be in the squad, but was then not included, were revealing in this situation.

Squad Chemistry

Bellingham may be disappointed following his conversation with Tuchel, but the head coach has other matters - and players - to focus on.

Tuchel was extremely impressed with the spirit in England's squad, which he said was the best since he was hired, stating to the finest display since he assumed control when Serbia were demolished in Belgrade.

He has no intention to disrupt that unity, even if that means Bellingham having to wait.

Rising Talents

Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson impressed against Serbia and in the earlier win against Andorra at Villa Park, while Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers excelled in the number 10 role that might have been occupied by Bellingham had he been fit in Belgrade.

Interestingly, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently recovered from a hamstring injury, but is recalled to occupy the vacancy left by injury to his Arsenal team-mate Noni Madueke.

Additional Omissions

The other big talking point in Tuchel's squad was his decision not to include Manchester City's Phil Foden - returning to top form after an indifferent season last term - and Everton forward Jack Grealish, who has been exceptional since signing on loan from Manchester City.

Foden has created 18 chances and scored five goals in all competitions this season, while Grealish has produced the most opportunities in the Premier League this season with 17, leading to four assists.

Like Bellingham, there is no instant route back for the pair despite a demand for their selection - once again showing Tuchel was very satisfied with what he observed at the last international camp.

Tournament Preparation

He maintained all camps leading up the World Cup, with England needing only five points to secure qualification, would be about developing competition and shaping his squad as well as results.

The latest England squad shows Tuchel will be faithful to his word.