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Thomas Tuchel's decision to overlook Jude Bellingham's wish to be included in his latest England squad is proof the head coach envisions a broader picture extending beyond the Real Madrid phenomenon.

The young midfielder, who famously uttered "who else?" when netting a spectacular stoppage-time overhead kick as England defeated Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now understands there are other options Tuchel will evaluate.

It is nonsensical to suggest Bellingham's exclusion is evidence Tuchel considers him as replaceable, but it shows the German will not be subservient to any player, or yield to the whims of his biggest names as his predecessors - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - previously did.

The days of automatic recalls for the biggest names by impressionable managers and coaches are over under Tuchel. Reputations amount to nothing. Performances do.

Fitness Factors

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

Bellingham has also appeared three times off the bench, but this was not enough for Tuchel to take note of his desire to be in the group who face Wales in a Wembley exhibition match before travelling to Latvia for a World Cup qualifier.

Past Controversies

Tuchel's relationship with Bellingham has already generated headlines, particularly when he admitted 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 "unpleasant".

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

Tuchel, however, has been in no hurry to restore 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 Perspective

The German stated Bellingham had "wanted to be called up" and that "he remains a special player, and for special players there can always be special rules."

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 as consideration.

"Do we become a better team with Jude? Yes," commented Tuchel. "But I told you before, what do we do if Jude is unfit before the World Cup? Do we just cancel?"

The notion of England going to the World Cup without a fit Bellingham is unthinkable, but Tuchel has established a marker by making it clear not every plan he devises will be reliant on him being in the team.

Squad Strength

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

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

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

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

Team Chemistry

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

Tuchel was extremely impressed with the atmosphere in England's squad, which he said was the best since he was appointed, stating to the finest display since he took over when Serbia were demolished in Belgrade.

He has no intention to disturb that unity, even if that means Bellingham having to be patient.

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

Interestingly, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently recovered from a hamstring injury, but is selected to fill the vacancy left by injury to his Arsenal team-mate Noni Madueke.

Other Exclusions

The other big talking point 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 outstanding since signing on loan from Manchester City.

Foden has generated 18 chances and scored five goals in all competitions this season, while Grealish has produced 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 demand for their selection - once again showing Tuchel was highly satisfied with what he observed at the last international gathering.

Tournament Preparation

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

The latest England squad shows Tuchel will be faithful to his word.