However, Tuchel appeared to set those deep-seated reservations to one side when he recalled the 27-year-old for this latest block of four Nations League fixtures. Faced with an opportunity to salvage his international career, Alexander-Arnold responded with a series of performances that have made it incredibly difficult for the manager to drop him again.
In Prague, Alexander-Arnold was handed his first start under Tuchel—marking his first start for his country since scoring in a Nations League victory over Finland in October 2024. He immediately vindicated his inclusion, showcasing the unique, world-class dimension he brings to the team by delivering a stunning, pinpoint cross to set up Anthony Gordon’s opening goal.
He followed that up with another highly influential display against the Czech Republic at Wembley. Operating with his trademark creative freedom, he forced an excellent early save from Czech goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek with a powerful 30-yard free-kick, before delivering several more dangerous, teasing crosses into the penalty area. While it is true that his defensive capabilities were not severely tested in either game, Alexander-Arnold’s sheer attacking class and creative output have surely done enough to secure his place in Tuchel’s immediate plans.
On the opposite side of the defense, Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall has emerged as one of the standout beneficiaries of this international break, making a compelling case to solve England’s long-standing left-back dilemma. The 22-year-old stepped into the starting lineup for three matches after Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly—who had established himself as first choice during the World Cup and the opening Nations League game against Spain—was forced to return to his club with an injury.
This unexpected window of opportunity allowed Hall, who recently committed his long-term future to Newcastle by signing a new contract running until 2031, to stake a claim for the position. He did so with immense poise and quality. Hall turned in highly accomplished performances in both fixtures against the Czech Republic, as well as during the high-scoring victory in Croatia.
Crucially for Tuchel, Hall’s inclusion unlocked a highly effective partnership on the left flank. Having previously played alongside Anthony Gordon at Newcastle, the duo displayed an instinctive, natural understanding, overlapping and combining to devastating effect. This pre-existing club chemistry is a major asset for England, giving Tuchel serious food for thought as he plans for future campaigns.
While O’Reilly has done very little wrong when fit, persistent questions remain over his long-term suitability for the role, specifically whether he is a natural defensive full-back or merely a converted midfielder playing out of position. In contrast, Hall looked the finished article in every department. Through his defensive solidity, tactical intelligence, and seamless link-up play with Gordon, the young defender has made it exceptionally difficult for Tuchel to leave him out of future starting lineups.
