The rumour mill has been in full swing but in just three days the speculation will end and clarity will ensue as Thomas Tuchel selects the 26 England players he believes can win the World Cup.

Tuchel has tested, tinkered and scrutinised the nation’s top stars since being tasked with ending the Three Lions’ 60-year wait for football’s greatest prize, and his verdict will become known to the world when he addresses the media on Friday.

Daily Mail Sport’s Football Editor, Ian Ladyman, will be at the Wembley Stadium briefing and, having observed Tuchel since he took the reins in January 2025, has unrivalled insight into the German’s psyche.

Writing exclusively in our brand-new newsletter World Cup Unfiltered, he has shared the two names he expects Tuchel to remain loyal to and the pair of stars who will be on the outside looking in – despite enjoying a strong end to the season.

Ladyman also reveals the surprising rumour doing the rounds of a shock recall for a striker no longer thought to be in the Three Lions picture.

Our man’s exclusive insight will be revealed in Wednesday’s edition of World Cup Unfiltered. You can sign up for our free newsletter HERE.

It will be delivered to you every Wednesday, then daily from June 1 – completely FREE throughout the World Cup.

Plus, have a go at picking your own England team with our squad selector.

Thomas Tuchel will name his 26-man England squad for the World Cup on Friday