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Thomas Tuchel's decision to ignore Jude Bellingham's wish to be included in his most recent England squad is proof the head coach envisions a wider picture extending beyond the Real Madrid superstar.

The young midfielder, who notoriously mouthed "who else?" when scoring a breathtaking stoppage-time overhead kick as England defeated Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now knows there are other options Tuchel will consider.

It is nonsensical to propose Bellingham's exclusion is evidence Tuchel considers him as dispensable, but it indicates the German will not be in thrall to any player, or yield to the whims of his star players as his forerunners - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - previously did.

The era of automatic recalls for the biggest names by starstruck managers and coaches are finished under Tuchel. Past achievements count for nothing. Current form do.

Medical Considerations

His decision is also grounded in solid common sense, with Bellingham beginning only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, after shoulder surgery.

Bellingham has also appeared three times as a substitute, but this was insufficient for Tuchel to take note of his wish to be in the group who play Wales in a Wembley exhibition match before journeying to Latvia for a World Cup qualifying match.

Previous Headlines

Tuchel's relationship with Bellingham has already generated headlines, particularly when he confessed after the 3-1 loss to Senegal at the City Ground in June that his mother sometimes viewed the player's on-field conduct as "repulsive".

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

Tuchel, however, has been in no rush to restore Bellingham to the squad, despite a status in recent years which has had him viewed as the fulcrum of England's team.

Manager's Viewpoint

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

But Tuchel is determined England's fortunes will not be shaped by whether Bellingham is present or not, especially with next summer's World Cup in mind.

"Do we become a better team with Jude? Yes," said 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 fit 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.

Squad Strength

Tuchel, importantly, is operating and choosing from a position of strength after the outstanding 5-0 win away to Serbia in England's last World Cup qualifier.

He has shown he will acknowledge loyalty after others performed well so much in Belgrade, demonstrating that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply walk back into his squad, regardless of their reputation.

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

His comments that Bellingham desired to be in the squad, but was then not included, were revealing in this context.

Team Spirit

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

Tuchel was hugely impressed with the spirit in England's squad, which he described was the best since he was appointed, stating to the finest display since he assumed control when Serbia were demolished in Belgrade.

He has no desire to disrupt that spirit, even if that means Bellingham having to be patient.

Rising Players

Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson impressed 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 filled by Bellingham had he been available in Belgrade.

Interestingly, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently recovered from a hamstring injury, but is recalled to occupy the vacancy left by injury to his Gunners' 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 - returning to top form after an indifferent season last term - and Everton forward Jack Grealish, who has been outstanding since signing on loan from Manchester City.

Foden has created 18 chances and scored five goals in all competitions this season, while Grealish has created the most opportunities in the Premier League this season with 17, leading to four assists.

Like Bellingham, there is no instant route back for the pair despite a clamour for their inclusion - once again showing Tuchel was very satisfied with what he observed at the last international camp.

Tournament Planning

He insisted all camps leading up the World Cup, with England requiring only five points to assure qualification, would be about building competition and molding his squad as well as results.

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