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

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

It is illogical to propose Bellingham's omission is evidence Tuchel regards him as dispensable, but it shows the German will not be in thrall to any player, or bow to the demands of his biggest names as his predecessors - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - did.

The era of guaranteed selections for the top players by impressionable managers and coaches are finished under Tuchel. Reputations count for nothing. Current form do.

Fitness Considerations

His ruling is also based on solid 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 insufficient for Tuchel to take note of his desire to be in the group who play Wales in a Wembley friendly before travelling to Latvia for a World Cup qualifier.

Previous Controversies

Tuchel's relationship 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 conduct as "unpleasant".

He later expressed regret, insisting he used the word "unintentionally" and has been quick 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 central figure 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.

"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 withdraw?"

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

Team Depth

Tuchel, crucially, is working and selecting 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 acknowledge loyalty after others impressed so much in Belgrade, proving that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply return automatically into his squad, regardless of their standing.

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

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

Squad Spirit

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

Tuchel was extremely impressed with the atmosphere in England's squad, which he described was the best since he was hired, adding to the most impressive 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.

Emerging Talents

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 shone 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 problem, but is selected to fill the opening 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 - 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 netted 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 instant route back for the pair despite a demand for their selection - once again showing Tuchel was highly satisfied with what he saw at the last international gathering.

World Cup Planning

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

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