England squad runners and riders: Who will Thomas Tuchel pick as wildcard options emerge?

Tuchel names his England squad Friday for Nations League matches against Croatia and Spain, with several selection dilemmas to resolve across defence, midfield and attack.

England manager Thomas Tuchel will announce his final squad of 2026 on Friday as the Three Lions prepare for two crucial Nations League fixtures this month. The team face Croatia at Wembley on November 12 before travelling to Spain on November 15, with a place in March's quarter-finals at stake.

While several players are automatic selections — including captain Harry Kane, Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham — Tuchel faces some tight calls to complete his squad. The article examines the definites, likelys and unlikely candidates across all positions, noting competition for the goalkeeper role between Jordan Pickford and emerging challengers, centre-back depth despite injuries, and attacking options with Bukayo Saka sidelined. Several players are highlighted as potential wildcards, including Rio Ngumoha at Liverpool and various squad depth options competing for limited spots.