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Thomas Tuchel's decision to ignore Jude Bellingham's wish to be included in his most recent England squad demonstrates the head coach sees a wider picture stretching beyond the Real Madrid superstar.

The 22-year-old, who notoriously mouthed "who else?" when scoring a breathtaking stoppage-time overhead kick as England beat Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024, now understands there are alternative choices Tuchel will evaluate.

It is illogical to suggest Bellingham's exclusion is evidence Tuchel regards him as replaceable, but it shows the German will not be subservient to any player, or bow to the whims of his star players as his predecessors - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - did.

The era of guaranteed selections for the biggest names by starstruck managers and coaches are over under Tuchel. Past achievements amount to nothing. Performances do.

Fitness Factors

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

Bellingham has also come on three times as a substitute, but this was insufficient for Tuchel to acknowledge his desire to be in the group who face Wales in a Wembley exhibition match before journeying to Latvia for a World Cup qualifier.

Previous Headlines

Tuchel's relationship with Bellingham has already created 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 publicly apologised, insisting he used the word "unintentionally" and has been quick to praise the midfielder.

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

Manager's Viewpoint

The German stated Bellingham had "desired selection" 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 shaped 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 injured before the World Cup? Do we just cancel?"

The idea of England going to the World Cup without a healthy Bellingham is unthinkable, but Tuchel has put down 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 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 acknowledge loyalty after others performed well so much in Belgrade, proving that no-one, no matter who they are, will simply return automatically into his squad, regardless of their reputation.

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 informative in this context.

Squad Spirit

Bellingham may be displeased following his discussion 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 said was the best since he was hired, stating to the finest display since he took over when Serbia were overwhelmed in Belgrade.

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

Rising 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 filled by Bellingham had he been available in Belgrade.

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

Additional 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 outstanding since joining on loan from Manchester City.

Foden has generated 18 chances and scored five goals in all competitions this season, while Grealish has created the most opportunities in the Premier League this season with 17, resulting in four assists.

Like Bellingham, there is no instant 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 camp.

Tournament Preparation

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

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