In-form Man United stars ‘back in the picture’ for World Cup call-up as Thomas Tuchel makes squad admission

Thomas Tuchel has hinted at an England return for three forgotten stars ahead of the World Cup.

The Three Lions boss ran the rule over several candidates for his final squad earlier this week.

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Tuchel was in attendance for Manchester United’s trip to West Ham United on Tuesday night.

Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw all started for Michael Carrick‘s side at the London Stadium.

The trio have been in impressive form since the caretaker manager’s arrival at Old Trafford.

And their displays could see them force their way back into Tuchel’s plans ahead of the World Cup.

The England boss will name his first squad of the year next month for friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan.

It will be the final chance for players to stake their claim before the Three Lions head to North America for the finals.

Trio in line for England return

Tuchel was asked if Mainoo, Maguire and Shaw are in the picture for a recall at Thursday’s Nations League draw.

In response, he told talkSPORT: “They were always in the picture, but they are more so now in the picture.

“I guessed that they were in the starting line-up (against West Ham) and I guessed right. That’s why I wanted to see them. I wanted to see them live.

“I’m very happy that they are in good form and in good shape because they are back in the picture.

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“March gives us the chance to have a last look at players before we need to nominate for our trip to the US.

“So, yes, they’re in the picture and I’m happy because competition is on.”

Mainoo, Maguire and Shaw have started all five matches since Carrick was appointed as United’s caretaker boss.

However, none of them have featured for England during Tuchel’s time in charge.

Shaw has not added to his 34 caps since the Euro 2024 final, which also served as Gareth Southgate‘s last match in charge.

Meanwhile, Mainoo and Maguire were last involved against the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League under Lee Carsley in September 2024.

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England confirmed this week that they will face New Zealand and Costa Rica in pre-tournament friendlies in Florida on the eve of the World Cup.

They then begin their group stage campaign against Croatia on June 17.

Tuchel had been speaking after England’s Nations League opponents were confirmed.

The Three Lions will face Spain, Croatia and Czechia between September and November.

They will be managed by the German for those fixtures after he signed a new deal with the FA.

Tuchel, who had been out of contract after the World Cup, has extended his contract until the end of Euro 2028.