Before Thomas Tuchel took charge, there were probably four England players who appeared to be undroppable: Jordan Pickford, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane. That soon became three when Tuchel made it clear that Bellingham - Real Madrid royalty or not - would have to fight Morgan Rogers for his place in the starting line-up.
Tuchel’s praise of Bellingham following his excellent performance against Croatia was suitably generous. But he made sure to give Rogers, who appeared as a 72nd minute substitute for Declan Rice, a serious name-check as well.
There is no doubt the threat of Rogers, an old friend, starting ahead of him inspired Bellingham. That sort of threat does not apply to Kane and Rice, but after what appeared to be an in-game spat with his goalkeeper, the same might not be the case with Pickford.
Combined with the implied criticism from Tuchel’s right-hand man, Anthony Barry, at half-time, it is now clear Pickford is not undroppable. Fox Sports reporter Geoff Shreeves reported that Tuchel said to Pickford: “You know what you’re supposed to do - do as I told you.”
READ MORE: FIFA issue England statement, 'spying' fears, Cristiano Ronaldo targeted - World Cup round-up
