Six big surprises in England’s squad for the Nations League

Thomas Tuchel has delivered six surprises in an unusual England squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures against Croatia and Spain. There are first time call-ups for Fulham’s Josh King and Jude Bellingham’s younger brother Jobe, while Brighton’s Jason Steele takes the third goalkeeper spot ahead of Crystal Palace’s Dean Henderson. Cole Palmer, widely tipped for a return to the squad, misses out in the attacking positions alongside Phil Foden, while Ben White makes a surprise return in defence. The World Cup bronze medallists are all but assured of a place in the Nations League quarter-finals ahead of next Thursday’s home game against Croatia and the trip to Spain three days later. Borussia Dortmund midfielder Bellingham’s first selection alongside older brother Jude Bellingham will dominate the headlines along with the inclusion of uncapped Fulham teenager King, who caught the eye during June’s World Cup warm-up camp. Declan Rice returns after injury but Bukayo Saka is absent with a thigh injury and Tuchel decided not to bring in Noni Madueke as his Arsenal team-mate’s replacement. There was no place for fellow World Cup squad members Nico O’Reilly, Dan Burn and Jordan Henderson after missing the last camp. Alex Scott, Marcus Rashford and John Stones are ruled out of this meet up through injury, as are Tino Livramento, Reece James and Trevoh Chalobah. More to follow… England vs Croatia – 12 November 7:45pm, Wembley Stadium Spain vs England – Sunday 15 November 7:45pm, The Riyadh Air Metropolitano England can top the group with at least one win providing Spain, who sit three points in front with inferior goal difference, drop points against Czech Republic and Croatia. EXPLORE MORE ON THE TOPICS IN THIS STORY