'Make the difference' - England boss Thomas Tuchel reveals why Marcus Rashford was handed call-up for September camp but fires warning to Man Utd outcast ahead of 2026 World Cup

The German has picked the Barcelona loanee in his squad ahead of fixtures against Andorra and Serbia, with the ex-Chelsea manager saying the 27-year-old's speed and attacking nature can "intimidate opponents". He added that the Manchester United outcast was picked alongside Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon and Arsenal's Eberechi Eze, and if he wants to make their 2026 World Cup squad, he needs to perform well, as the Three Lions have strength in depth in his position.

He told reporters: "I think he had a very good camp. He tried very, very hard to be the best version of himself in the first camp. He was in a good moment at Aston Villa. I wanted to encourage him and give him as a positive feedback, gave him this camp and the call-up. He did very well. He missed the second camp for us. Now he made a big change, into a new football culture, new country. But he started already matches for Barcelona and I wanted to keep him going. It's the one position where we have three players. After long discussions we decided to take three players on this position. It's Ebs [Eze], Anthony [Gordon], and Marcus. I think Marcus gives us one-on-ones; he gives us the finishing ability, with both feet. He gives us the body and the speed to intimidate opponents and make the difference. It's on him to keep that going."

Rashford was left out of Gareth Southgate's England squad for last year's Euros but Tuchel has made it clear he is very much part of his plans. The United academy product has chalked up two appearances for Barcelona so far but he will need to deliver for the Blaugrana this season if he wants to head with his England team-mates to next year's World Cup.

England international Rashford will hope to feature for Tuchel's side for these World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia on September 6 and 9, respectively. Before then, he could play for Barca away at Rayo Vallecano on Sunday in La Liga.