By Martin Graham
Bukayo Saka played the whole match against Serbiaunderlining once again its importance England’s Global ambitions. His superb opening stroke set the stage for a seventh straight qualifying win, a streak achieved without interruption. While several attacking options are vying for the coveted No.10 role, Saka’s position seems undisputed.
The winger’s contribution has grown steadily since his debut in 2020, with his goal at Wembley marking his 14th in national colors in 47 games. He has already overtaken Cliff Bastin as Arsenal’s top goalscorer in England, a milestone achieved in October. Unless fitness issues intervene, he is expected to start England’s first game next summer.
Thomas Tuchel continues to see Saka as one of his key figures, matching the reliability he has long been associated with Harry Kane. The striker’s consistency and track record at national and international level gives the head coach a reliable presence at crucial moments.
Kane himself remains England’s main offensive touchstone, shown by a blistering defensive challenge in the second half that reflected his determination. His 76 goals in 111 games make him the central figure of the team, but the display of Saka – and others – presented welcome alternatives in the final third.
Competition intensifies for starting roles
Although the Serbia game had no impact on the qualifiers, the stakes were high for those competing for a place in the starting lineup. The introduction of Jude Bellingham, Phil Footi god bless you in the 65th minute he brought fresh energy, helping to ensure the success of the 2-0. Eze scored the second goal with a precise finish after a combination between Bellingham and Foden.
Tuchel highlighted the influence of his substitutes and praised their willingness to contribute without prioritizing individual roles. He stressed that collective mentality, rather than the pursuit of a fixed starting eleven, drives England’s progress.
Several areas remain to be resolved, in particular the left-back spot, central defense, the central creative role and the left attacking spot. Although Serbia offered limited resistance at times, the encounter still provided valuable insight for the coaching staff as preparations for the tournament sharpen.
The decision to keep the faith Morgan Rogersdespite Bellingham’s availability, it reflected Tuchel’s preference for stability and merit. Rogers continued to impress with determined play, almost creating a chance for the second half Marcus Rashford. Bellingham eventually entered the game with enthusiastic support, but it took time to find its rhythm, although it did contribute in the build-up to Eze’s goal.
Foden, team depth and emerging options
Phil Foden remains a candidate for more central involvement and delivered a dynamic cameo full of nimble movement and penetrating dribbling. Tuchel noted his confidence and appreciation for his work in the compact areas of midfield, although he is not considering overtaking Kane for a central attacking role. Still, Foden bolsters England’s tactical range with his versatility.
porter Jordan Pickfordwho extended his run to ten consecutive clean sheets in World Cup qualifying, echoed those views. He highlighted the value of England’s depth, noting the different qualities players bring when competing for overlapping positions. Pickford credited both established figures and newcomers for maintaining high standards throughout the squad.
Debutante Nico O’Reilly impressed at left back, adding another name to an unsettled position. In central defence, Ezri Konsa continues to stake his claim, complementing established options such as John Stones and Marc Guehi. The battle on the left flank remains open, with Rashford facing pressure from Anthony Gordon – currently out – and Arsenal’s Noni Madueke once available.
Rashford showed his trademark footwork but lacked decisive finishing, leaving him with work to do as opponents struggled for minutes. England now head to Albania, where another opportunity awaits players hoping to secure spots before the World Cup approaches.
