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Thomas Tuchel's decision to ignore Jude Bellingham's wish to be included in his latest England squad is proof the head coach sees a wider picture extending beyond the Real Madrid superstar.

The young midfielder, who notoriously mouthed "who else?" when netting a spectacular stoppage-time overhead kick as England beat Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now knows there are other options Tuchel will consider.

It is nonsensical to suggest Bellingham's exclusion is proof Tuchel regards him as dispensable, but it indicates the German will not be in thrall to any player, or yield to the whims of his star players as his predecessors - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - previously did.

The era of guaranteed selections for the top players by impressionable managers and coaches are finished under Tuchel. Reputations count for nothing. Performances do.

Fitness Factors

His ruling is also grounded in 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 as a substitute, but this was insufficient for Tuchel to take note of his desire to be in the group who play Wales in a Wembley friendly before travelling to Latvia for a World Cup qualifying match.

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 behaviour as "unpleasant".

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

Tuchel, however, has been in no rush to restore Bellingham to the squad, despite a reputation in recent years which has had him viewed as the fulcrum of England's team.

Coach's Viewpoint

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 success 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," said 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 inconceivable, but Tuchel has established a precedent by making it clear not every plan he devises will be reliant on him being in the team.

Team Depth

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

He has demonstrated he will reward loyalty after others performed well so much in Belgrade, proving that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply walk back into his squad, regardless of their reputation.

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

His remarks that Bellingham desired to be in the squad, but was then not selected, were informative in this context.

Team Spirit

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

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

He has no intention to disrupt that spirit, even if that means Bellingham having to wait.

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 excelled in the number 10 role that might have been occupied by Bellingham had he been available in Belgrade.

Interestingly, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently recovered from a hamstring problem, 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 - returning to top form after an indifferent season last term - and Everton forward Jack Grealish, who has been exceptional since signing on loan from Manchester City.

Foden has created 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 selection - once again showing Tuchel was highly satisfied with what he saw at the last international camp.

World Cup Planning

He maintained all camps leading up the World Cup, with England needing only five points to secure qualification, would be about developing competition and shaping his squad as well as outcomes.

The latest England squad demonstrates Tuchel will be true to his word.