New England manager Thomas Tuchel is wasting no time in stamping his authority. Since taking charge on January 1, 2025, the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss has been meticulously preparing his first squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Among the many names under consideration, two players currently playing in the Championship could make the cut, as Tuchel and his staff are keeping a close eye on lower divisions in search of top talent.
James Trafford: A Goalkeeper of Undeniable Talent
At just 22 years old, Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford has already established himself as one of England’s brightest young shot-stoppers. He burst onto the scene at the 2023 U21 Euros, playing a key role in England’s triumph by keeping a flawless clean sheet throughout the tournament. Since then, he has continued to showcase his immense potential. Despite a challenging first season in the Premier League with Burnley, Trafford remains a standout performer, impressing with his exceptional reflexes, composure in high-pressure moments, and quick reactions despite his towering 1.97m frame.
Recently, Trafford delivered another remarkable display in a Championship clash against Sunderland, saving two penalties, including a dramatic 97th-minute stop that mirrored his heroics in the U21 Euro final. That goalless draw was watched closely by Anthony Barry, Tuchel’s assistant, who was in attendance to monitor the young goalkeeper’s performance. Under the defensive structure implemented by manager Scott Parker, Burnley have not conceded in their last seven games, with Trafford registering an impressive 19 clean sheets in 29 matches.
Having received his first senior England call-up in March 2024, though without making his debut, Trafford could now take the next step under Tuchel’s tenure. With the national team’s goalkeeping pecking order still open to competition, he may soon be pushing for a place between the posts for the Three Lions.
Jobe Bellingham: The Rise of Sunderland’s Midfield Star
At 19 years old, Jobe Bellingham is carving out his own path in football, despite the inevitable comparisons to his older brother, Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham. A product of Birmingham City’s academy, Jobe has become a key figure at Sunderland, thriving under Régis Le Bris’ system, especially following Jack Clarke’s departure. His standout performances this season have already attracted interest from top European clubs, who could make their move in the summer transfer window.
Carrying the weight of a famous surname brings significant pressure, and Jobe is constantly measured against his brother’s achievements. This adds an extra layer of difficulty for a young player still developing his game. However, he has responded admirably, showcasing his ability to dictate play, drive forward with the ball, and create opportunities for his team. With central midfield not being England’s strongest area in terms of depth, Tuchel sees Jobe as a potential addition to the senior squad. Beyond Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice, other midfield options like Kobbie Mainoo, Curtis Jones, and Morgan Gibbs-White have yet to fully establish themselves at the international level.
Jobe made his England U21 debut last November, and according to reports, Tuchel is considering fast-tracking him to the senior team. With Sunderland currently near the top of the Championship table, he could be rewarded for his efforts with a senior call-up for England’s March fixtures against Albania and Latvia. If selected, he would follow in the footsteps of Kalvin Phillips, the last Championship player to earn a Three Lions call-up while at Leeds United in 2021.
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