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The England manager declared that putting together the highest-profile footballers is no assurance of building the most effective team unit. He hinted regardless of whether the Real Madrid midfielder had returned to peak fitness after his shoulder injury, the player could still have been omitted from the latest national team selection.

Focus on Team Spirit

England's head coach further revealed that Bukayo Saka's recall may not have happened if his teammate the injured winger remained fit. Tuchel has placed great importance on team cohesion with his choices for the forthcoming friendly against Wales and subsequent qualifier in Latvia.

"We're creating the best team," said the England boss, who challenged the conventional wisdom that championship teams always select their top attacking players.

Proven Success

The manager referenced the positive energy in the previous international break where the national team beat Andorra and performed brilliantly versus Serbia in Bellingham's absence. Tuchel observed no reason to alter the squad chemistry that produced such positive performances.

• Bellingham left out despite Real Madrid return
• Foden not included despite improved form
• Jack Grealish also was excluded

Physical Condition Factors

Although the manager partly explained Bellingham's exclusion due to physical condition, he acknowledged that the midfielder desired selection when they spoke. The German coach had earlier said sorry to the midfielder for remarks regarding his playing behavior.

"Don't you think that attitude on the bench, support from training, and team togetherness enables the starting eleven to play at their best?" Tuchel asked.

Squad Selection Justification

Tuchel emphasized that his decisions weren't individual against any player but instead rewarded those who had delivered during the previous international break.

"What would be justify dropping them while remaining credible in my words?" Tuchel asked.

Necessary Adjustments

The only change in selection was compulsory with injured Madueke making way for the returning Saka. The manager explained that the Arsenal winger could have been excluded if Madueke remained fit.

Other absentees featured Chelsea's Cole Palmer, who continues affected by injury problems. Given just two additional gatherings before the World Cup, opportunities are diminishing for some players to impress.

World Cup Scheduling Concerns

The manager revealed his preference for national team matches to start later because of temperature worries in North America. He acknowledged this would create watching problems for UK supporters but insisted player welfare must come first.

"I know supporters won't be happy but for the team it's better with later kickoffs," Tuchel said. "Our athletes make the sport and we have to protect them."