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Thomas Tuchel's decision to ignore Jude Bellingham's desire to be selected in his latest England squad is proof the head coach sees a wider picture extending beyond the Real Madrid phenomenon.

The young midfielder, who famously uttered "who else?" when netting a breathtaking stoppage-time overhead kick as England beat Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now knows there are alternative choices Tuchel will evaluate.

It is illogical to suggest Bellingham's omission is proof Tuchel regards him as dispensable, but it indicates the German will not be subservient to any player, or yield to the whims of his star players as his predecessors - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - previously did.

The era of automatic recalls for the biggest names by impressionable managers and coaches are over under Tuchel. Reputations count for nothing. Performances do.

Fitness Considerations

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

Bellingham has also appeared three times as a substitute, but this was insufficient for Tuchel to acknowledge his wish to be in the group who face Wales in a Wembley friendly before journeying to Latvia for a World Cup qualifying match.

Past Controversies

Tuchel's dynamic with Bellingham has already created media attention, particularly when he admitted after the 3-1 loss to Senegal at the City Ground in June that his mother sometimes perceived the player's on-field behaviour as "repulsive".

He later expressed regret, insisting he used the word "unintentionally" and has not been slow to commend the midfielder.

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

Manager's Perspective

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

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

The idea of England going to the World Cup without a fit Bellingham is unthinkable, but Tuchel has established a marker by making it clear not every strategy he devises will be dependent on him being in the team.

Squad Strength

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

He has shown he will reward loyalty after others performed well so much in Belgrade, proving that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply return automatically into his squad, irrespective of their standing.

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

His comments that Bellingham wanted to be in the squad, but was then not selected, were revealing in this context.

Squad Spirit

Bellingham may be displeased following his conversation with Tuchel, but the head coach has different priorities - and players - to focus on.

Tuchel was hugely impressed with the atmosphere in England's squad, which he said was the best since he was appointed, adding to the finest display since he took over when Serbia were overwhelmed in Belgrade.

He has no desire to disrupt that spirit, even if that means Bellingham having to wait.

Rising Players

Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson performed well 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 available in Belgrade.

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

Other Exclusions

The other big topic of discussion in Tuchel's squad was his decision not to include Manchester City's Phil Foden - back to his best after an inconsistent season last term - and Everton forward Jack Grealish, who has been exceptional since joining on loan from Manchester City.

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

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

World Cup Planning

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

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