Tuchel admits Fodens spot in Englands World Cup team is not assured amid ongoing challenges

Phil Foden found it difficult to adapt to an unusual forward position without Harry Kane during Englands tight 1-0 loss in a friendly against Japan on Tuesday.

Despite an impressive beginning to the season the 25 year old has recently dropped in Pep Guardiolas preferences at Manchester City.

He gave his all. I would describe him as outstanding during the training sessions but yes he finds it hard to demonstrate that during matches Tuchel commented.

Clearly he has not featured much for City lately then he arrived at the camp with a beaming smile and excelled in practice and I believed he would astonish us with the same energy and enthusiasm.

Yet he battles to make a complete difference.

Foden has infrequently carried his peak Manchester City performances over to international duty even throughout the journey to the Euro 2024 final shortly after earning Premier League player of the year accolades.

Moreover he contends with fierce rivalry from Jude Bellingham Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers for a creative midfield position in Tuchels lineup.

It is not certain that he will join us Tuchel noted when questioned about including an underperforming player in the squad for the tournament in North America.

The loss to Japan marked only Tuchels second defeat in 12 outings as England manager though he has not yet overcome any team in FIFAs top 20 rankings over a year in charge.

Following a 1-1 draw with Uruguay the previous week the German coach stated that the tough March schedule will not shape their destiny as he stays optimistic about England securing a major trophy since 1966 this summer.

We shall hold onto our ambition we shall keep asking why not the ex Chelsea manager declared.

Currently the key priority is for the players to return to their clubs finish the season strongly and then join pre tournament camp where we can ready them thoroughly and progress accordingly.