Has Tuchel's first squad revealed England's short-term strategy?

Tuchel's appointment as England head coach has always carried the feel of an 18-month job focussed entirely on winning the World Cup and not beyond.

Win then move on. Lose then move on.

The Football Association provoked debate, and some criticism, by ignoring the claims of English candidates such as Eddie Howe in their succession plan post-Southgate, to go for the best man available regardless of nationality.

The strategy was clear. The long-term can wait while a proven winner takes charge and Tuchel's first England squad merely confirms it.

There is a nod to the next generation with the inclusion of versatile defender Lewis-Skelly with England short at left-back and Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, who is 22, but there was the definite whiff of short-term targets in Tuchel's selection.

However, the recall of Henderson is the most eye-catching example of Tuchel wanting experience for the here and now. He last played for England in November 2023 and missed out on selection for last summer's Euro 2024.

Tuchel described Henderson as a "serial winner" and this is what the coach has in mind as he plots a path to next year's World Cup.

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