'It's time for fresh blood!' - Thomas Tuchel fires warning to England veterans after choosing to call on young stars for September internationals

Tuchel made the comment while responding to a question about the inclusion of Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton in his squad to face Andorra and Serbia. Wharton was a part of Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad but has not featured in the senior team since his debut before the tournament while Anderson has been rewarded for his league form and European Under-21 Championship crown with his first senior call-up. Tottenham's Djed Spence is also included for the first time.

Trent Alexander-Arnold was the most notable omission. The former Liverpool man started from the bench in Real Madrid's recent 3-0 win over Real Oviedo. Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer and Bukayo Saka all miss out thanks to injury, opening the door for younger options like Wharton and Anderson, as well as the returning Marcus Rashford.

Tuchel said: "We called both of them up, because first of all we think both of them deserve it. 

"They played big roles in two very successful campaigns for their clubs last season. Adam was involved in major trophies for Crystal Palace, and was a key player in the central midfield. Elliot was a key part in a campaign that led to Europe for Nottingham Forest.

"Both of them deserve it, they have had a good start to the season. They have full rhythm. It's time for more competition. It's time for a bit of fresh blood, and that's why they deserve to be with us."

Both Wharton and Anderson will fancy their chances of starting alongside Declan Rice in the Three Lions engine room. England continue their World Cup 2026 qualification campaign when they face Andorra at Wembley on September 6 before making the trip to Belgrade to take on Serbia on September 9.