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Thomas Tuchel's decision to overlook Jude Bellingham's desire to be selected in his most recent England squad demonstrates the head coach envisions a broader picture stretching 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 alternative choices Tuchel will evaluate.

It is illogical to propose Bellingham's exclusion is proof Tuchel regards him as dispensable, but it shows the German will not be in thrall to any player, or yield to the demands of his biggest names as his forerunners - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - did.

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

Fitness Factors

His decision is also based on sound common sense, with Bellingham starting only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, after shoulder surgery.

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

Previous Controversies

Tuchel's dynamic 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 perceived the player's on-field behaviour as "repulsive".

He later expressed regret, maintaining he used the word "unintentionally" and has not been slow to praise the midfielder.

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

Manager's Perspective

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

But Tuchel is determined England's success will not be determined by whether Bellingham is present or not, especially with next summer's World Cup as consideration.

"Are we 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 strategy he devises will be dependent on him being in the team.

Team Depth

Tuchel, importantly, is operating 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 shown he will reward loyalty after others impressed so much in Belgrade, proving that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply return automatically into his squad, irrespective of their standing.

Tuchel warned "there are definitely 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 selected, were revealing in this context.

Squad Chemistry

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

Tuchel was extremely impressed with the spirit in England's squad, which he described was the best since he was appointed, stating to the most impressive 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.

Emerging Talents

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.

Interestingly, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently returned from a hamstring injury, but is selected to fill the vacancy 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 indifferent season last term - and Everton forward Jack Grealish, who has been outstanding since joining on loan from Manchester City.

Foden has generated 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, leading to four assists.

Like Bellingham, there is no immediate route back for the pair despite a demand for their inclusion - once again showing Tuchel was very satisfied with what he saw at the last international gathering.

Tournament Planning

He insisted all sessions leading up the World Cup, with England requiring only five points to secure qualification, would be about building competition and shaping his squad as well as outcomes.

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