Thomas Tuchel has recalled Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer to the England squad for the nation's first international matches since the World Cup. Both players were not included in the 26-man World Cup squad that travelled to the United States this summer.
Palmer, a Chelsea star, has made a strong start to the new campaign under manager Xabi Alonso, scoring four goals and providing two assists in six games. His return to form follows an injury-hampered 2025/26 season. Alexander-Arnold, a former Liverpool player, was previously overlooked due to perceived defensive weaknesses and has played only once under Tuchel.
The squad also sees first senior call-ups for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott and 18-year-old Liverpool winger Rio Ngumoha. Other additions include Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite, Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly, Newcastle's Lewis Hall, and Leeds striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Nine players from the initial World Cup squad have not been called up, with Dean Henderson, Dan Burn, and Jordan Henderson unavailable due to injury. Djed Spence, John Stones, Noni Madueke, Ivan Toney, Reece James, and Ollie Watkins have been dropped. Phil Foden, who missed the World Cup, remains without a recall after a stuttered start to the season.
England will begin their new Nations League campaign with four matches during an extended three-week international break. They are set to face world champions Spain at Wembley on Saturday 26 September, followed by trips to Czech Republic on Tuesday 29 September and Croatia four days later. The Three Lions will then host Czech Republic at Wembley on Tuesday 6 October.