As the stars arrived at St George’s Park, Thomas Tuchel embraced England rookies Dan Burn and Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Tuchel, who memorably guided Chelsea to the 2021 Champions League, gets ready for his first two games as manager of the Three Lions.
England’s World Cup qualifying matches are against Latvia on Monday and Albania on Friday, both at Wembley.
As they reported to training for life under their new coach, the players were beaming.
Tuchel embraced Burn of Newcastle, who was undoubtedly still ecstatic after leading his team home after defeating Liverpool in the League Cup final, and Lewis-Skelly of Arsenal.
The defensive duo is expected to make their senior debuts in what may be a revamped England defense.
Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson, two veterans who were left off of Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad last summer, were also present.
Rashford has four assists to his name but hasn’t scored since going on loan from Manchester United to Aston Villa.
In a friendly match against Brazil in March 2024, which ended in a 1-0 loss, he earned his final England cap off the bench.
Henderson, the Ajax captain this season, hasn’t represented his country since November 2023.
Burn of Newcastle and the former Sunderland midfielder were seen laughing together.
Additionally, Tuchel earlier stated: “I firmly think that Jordan Henderson and Dan Burn have every opportunity to join us at the World Cup.”
“Building a team that enjoys playing together and spreads that energy to the supporters, the country, and the nation is the essence of football in general and perhaps even more international football.
“Building a brotherhood is the goal, so we can’t limit ourselves to just young players or seasoned players.”
“I think there needs to be a good blend and balance, and that’s what we’re aiming for.
“Players like Jordan Henderson and Dan Burn unquestionably contribute to a team by their leadership, dedication, humility, setting the bar high, and concern for the group’s respect.
“Dan was never called up, which surprises me. Even though he is a very big man, it is easy to ignore him.
When Tuchel left out Morgan Gibbs-White of Nottingham Forest, eyebrows were originally aroused.
However, Gibbs-White, a Forest native who has previously earned two senior caps, entered the team in place of injured Chelsea star Cole Palmer.
After returning to club competition, Chelsea captain James, who hasn’t played for England since 2023, reconnected with former Blues manager Tuchel.
