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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 envisions a wider picture stretching beyond the Real Madrid phenomenon.

The young midfielder, who notoriously uttered "who else?" when netting a spectacular 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 propose Bellingham's omission is evidence Tuchel considers him as replaceable, but it indicates the German will not be subservient to any player, or yield to the demands of his biggest names as his predecessors - most notably Sven-Goran Eriksson - did.

The era of guaranteed selections for the top players by starstruck managers and coaches are finished under Tuchel. Past achievements amount to nothing. Current form do.

Fitness Factors

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

Bellingham has also appeared three times off the bench, but this was insufficient for Tuchel to take note of his wish to be in the group who play Wales in a Wembley friendly before journeying to Latvia for a World Cup qualifying match.

Past Headlines

Tuchel's relationship with Bellingham has already generated media attention, 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 conduct 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 rush 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 said Bellingham had "desired selection" and that "he is a special player, and for special players there can always be exceptions."

But Tuchel is resolved England's fortunes will not be shaped by whether Bellingham is available or not, especially with next summer's World Cup in mind.

"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 withdraw?"

The idea of England going to the World Cup without a fit Bellingham is unthinkable, but Tuchel has put down a precedent by making it clear not every strategy he formulates will be reliant on him being in the team.

Squad Strength

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

He has demonstrated 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 absolutely no guarantees" for any player - and his Bellingham decision validates it.

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

Team Chemistry

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

Tuchel was hugely 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 assumed control when Serbia were demolished in Belgrade.

He has no desire to disturb 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 shone in the number 10 role that might have been filled by Bellingham had he been available in Belgrade.

Notably, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has only recently returned from a hamstring injury, but is selected to occupy the vacancy left by injury to his Gunners' team-mate Noni Madueke.

Other Exclusions

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 inconsistent 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, resulting in four assists.

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

World Cup Planning

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

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