Bellingham Benched as England Opt for Rodgers Against Serbia

Jude Bellingham Benched: England Rely on Rodgers for Serbia Clash

Jude Bellingham Benched for Crucial England Qualifier

Jude Bellingham headlines England news as he is set to start on the bench for the Three Lions’ upcoming World Cup qualifier against Serbia. England manager Thomas Tuchel has opted for a strong starting eleven, but the Real Madrid star will need to wait for his chance, with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rodgers retaining his spot in the attacking midfield role.

Rodgers Favoured Over Bellingham in England’s Lineup

Tuchel’s decision to keep faith with Rodgers comes after the 22-year-old impressed in England’s recent fixtures. Rodgers started as the No.10 during October’s wins over Latvia and Wales, as well as September’s victory over Serbia. With a goal and an assist in the 2025-26 season, Rodgers has made himself difficult to drop, even with Bellingham regaining fitness following shoulder surgery.

Bellingham missed the beginning of the domestic campaign for Real Madrid but has started to find his form again, recently contributing a goal and an assist during El Clasico. Despite his resurgence, Tuchel believes Bellingham is still regaining his rhythm and that squad balance is more important than individual reputations.

Tuchel Explains Midfield Competition

Addressing the media, Tuchel highlighted the friendly competition between Bellingham and Rodgers for the attacking midfield spot. “Rather than just fitting in the best players, we’re choosing the best team structure,” Tuchel explained. He emphasized that both midfielders are talented and respectful rivals, vying for the same role.

Tuchel also addressed the possibility of playing Bellingham alongside Phil Foden and Harry Kane. “With our current structure, they can’t all be on the pitch together. For balance, we need specialists in each position,” he asserted. England’s current system relies on a set tactical approach, which Tuchel is reluctant to change given the team’s recent unbeaten record in qualifiers.

England’s System Over Star Power

The German coach’s commitment to a defined tactical structure marks a shift from previous England managers, who often struggled to include all their star names. Instead, Tuchel’s formula—prioritizing role players and team shape—has seen England win all six of their group games without conceding a goal, already qualifying for the expanded 2026 World Cup in North America.

While the quality of opposition in the group may not have been the highest, England’s form suggests Tuchel’s methods are working. However, Bellingham’s continued exclusion from the starting eleven raises questions. As a fiercely competitive player, Bellingham will be eager to prove himself indispensable, and many fans believe he is vital for England’s tournament hopes.

What Bellingham’s Bench Role Means for England

Bellingham’s absence from the starting lineup is a calculated risk. While Rodgers has earned his place through recent performances, Bellingham’s quality and big-match experience are undeniable. Should England face stiffer competition, Tuchel may need to call upon the Real Madrid midfielder’s talents.

Looking Ahead: Can England’s System Deliver?

If Tuchel’s tactical system continues to deliver results, England will enter the World Cup as one of the favorites. However, the manager must balance maintaining team cohesion with making the most of his top talents. Whether Bellingham’s time on the bench is temporary or the beginning of a longer-term rivalry for the No.10 shirt remains to be seen.

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Opinion: Is Bench Time the Right Move for Bellingham?

While Tuchel’s commitment to structure and competition is commendable, leaving Bellingham on the bench is a bold call. With his world-class ability and recent return to form, Bellingham could be the difference in high-pressure situations. It’s a decision that will spark debate among fans and pundits alike, and the coming matches will show whether this gamble pays off.