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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 envisions a broader picture stretching beyond the Real Madrid superstar.

The young midfielder, who famously uttered "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 other options Tuchel will consider.

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

The days of automatic recalls for the top players by impressionable managers and coaches are over under Tuchel. Reputations amount to nothing. Current form do.

Medical Considerations

His ruling is also based on solid common sense, with Bellingham beginning only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, after arm operation.

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

Previous Controversies

Tuchel's dynamic 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 "repulsive".

He later expressed regret, insisting he used the word "accidentally" and has been quick to praise the midfielder.

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

Coach's Viewpoint

The German said Bellingham had "desired selection" and that "he is a special player, and for special players there can always be exceptions."

But Tuchel is resolved 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," commented 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 unthinkable, but Tuchel has put down a marker by making it clear not every strategy he formulates will be dependent on him being in the team.

Team Strength

Tuchel, importantly, 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, demonstrating that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply return automatically into his squad, regardless of their reputation.

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

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

Team Spirit

Bellingham may be displeased following his discussion with Tuchel, but the head coach has different priorities - and players - to focus on.

Tuchel was extremely impressed with the spirit in England's squad, which he said was the best since he was appointed, adding to the finest 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 Players

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

Notably, 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.

Other Omissions

The other big topic of discussion 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 signing 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, resulting in 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 camp.

World Cup Planning

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

The most recent England squad demonstrates Tuchel will be faithful to his word.