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

The 22-year-old, who notoriously uttered "who else?" when netting a spectacular stoppage-time overhead kick as England beat Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now understands there are alternative choices Tuchel will evaluate.

It is illogical to suggest Bellingham's exclusion is proof Tuchel considers him as replaceable, but it shows the German will not be subservient to any player, or bow to the demands of his star players as his predecessors - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - previously did.

The days of automatic recalls for the biggest names by starstruck managers and coaches are over under Tuchel. Reputations amount to nothing. Performances do.

Medical Factors

His decision is also grounded in sound common sense, with Bellingham starting only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, after shoulder surgery.

Bellingham has also come on three times as a substitute, but this was not enough for Tuchel to take note of his desire to be in the group who face Wales in a Wembley friendly before journeying to Latvia for a World Cup qualifying match.

Past Headlines

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

He later publicly apologised, insisting he used the word "unintentionally" and has been quick to commend the midfielder.

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

Coach's Perspective

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

But Tuchel is determined England's success will not be determined by whether Bellingham is available or not, especially with next summer's World Cup as consideration.

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

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

Team Depth

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

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

Tuchel cautioned "there are absolutely 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 informative in this situation.

Team Spirit

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

Tuchel was hugely impressed with the spirit in England's squad, which he described was the best since he was hired, stating to the most impressive 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 be patient.

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 shone in the number 10 role that might have been occupied by Bellingham had he been available in Belgrade.

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

Additional Exclusions

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 outstanding 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 gathering.

Tournament Preparation

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

The latest England squad demonstrates Tuchel will be true to his word.