England Manager Open to Selecting Players in Lower Divisions

England manager Thomas Tuchel has indicated he would not hesitate to select players who are not currently playing in top-tier leagues, particularly in light of the ongoing discussions surrounding Manchester City. The squad is preparing to face Croatia in the Nations League.

Tuchel commented on the "big subject" being discussed within the England camp. "I would always try to pick the best team for the camp, for the occasion, for the tournament," he said. "I will never rule out that because they don't play in the top flight in their country. We need to look at it case by case."

Historically, it is unusual for players to represent England if they are not competing in a top division club. However, there have been exceptions. James Trafford was part of Tuchel's squads in March and June 2025 while playing for Burnley in the Championship, though he remained an unused substitute and did not earn a full cap until his return to Manchester City. Goalkeeper Sam Johnstone was the last player to represent England while playing in the Championship for West Brom in 2021. Kalvin Phillips made his debut for England while at Leeds before he had played in the Premier League.

Tuchel acknowledged the prevalence of the Manchester City situation among his players. "We had some time off between the matches and it is a big subject. Everyone speaks about it, so there is no other voice needed," he stated. "Of course, the players talk about it. City players talk about it. We talk with them but only briefly. They are ready to go tomorrow, that's what they show on the pitch and in camp. But of course, it's a big topic in the camp."