Another Tuchel shock! England head coach stuns with surprise forward call-up
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
Amidst Thomas Tuchel’s sweeping personnel revolution—mercilessly axing Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Harry Maguire from the squad—the England coaching staff have delivered fans a jaw-dropping surprise with a “plus” twist.
Details: According to The Athletic, 30-year-old striker Ivan Toney, currently plying his trade for Saudi side Al-Ahli, is officially back with the Three Lions and will be heading to the 2026 World Cup.
This bold decision from the German tactician is seen as a reward for the striker’s phenomenal form in the Middle East. The former Brentford forward has enjoyed a truly stellar season in the Saudi Pro League, tearing apart opposition defenses: in 37 appearances for Al-Ahli across all competitions, Toney netted 42 goals and provided 11 assists.
Such lethal statistics and his unique composure from the penalty spot have forced Tuchel to rethink his stance on a player who hadn’t been called up to the national team since June last year. In the US-hosted World Cup, Ivan Toney will be the main and most dangerous backup to Harry Kane.
Reminder: Chelsea star Cole Palmer was left out of England’s World Cup squad.