Welbeck and Wilson: Can the Veteran Duo Secure Spots in England’s World Cup Team?

A Surprise Selection Dilemma for England’s Manager

England’s head coach, Thomas Tuchel, faces an unexpected challenge regarding player selection as the World Cup approaches. While discussions have primarily centered around emerging talents, two seasoned Premier League players are making a strong case for a spot in the squad as potential alternatives to Harry Kane next summer.

Timely Resurgence of Veteran Strikers

Danny Welbeck and Callum Wilson, who have mostly been sidelined from the international scene lately, may see their fortunes change. Welbeck, approaching 35, scored his seventh goal in as many games during Brighton’s thrilling 2-1 comeback win against Brentford last Saturday. Concurrently, Wilson, now 33, put forth an impressive performance, scoring twice in a gripping 2-2 draw with West Ham, bringing his total to four goals this season after joining from Newcastle.

This performance from the experienced forwards begs the question: could they be knocking on Tuchel’s door for a spot in the squad with only one international break left before the 2026 World Cup selections?

Wilson Open to England Return

Aiming for Redemption

Callum Wilson is no stranger to the international spotlight. After not being in the national team since October 2019, he successfully made his way back into Gareth Southgate’s 2022 World Cup roster following a stellar start to the season with Newcastle, where he racked up six goals in the initial games.

In that World Cup trip, he only made two substitutions, and his last cap was in September 2023. Recently, former England goalkeeper Rob Green has suggested that Wilson’s current form could earn him another chance with the national team. During his latest match, while one of Wilson’s goals benefited from a goalkeeper error, his second was an impressive effort that showcased his abilities.

Green praised Wilson’s performance, stating, “He was at his clinical best, taking two chances and scoring two excellent goals. If he continues this level of play and stays fit, he could become a key figure for West Ham throughout the season, especially since England lacks depth at the striker position.”

After leaving Newcastle, Wilson decided against a move to Saudi Arabia and instead signed with the Hammers, where he has now started three consecutive matches, contributing significantly to the team’s fight to escape the relegation zone.

Following his performance against Bournemouth, Wilson acknowledged that he would welcome a chance to represent England again, saying, “Every player would be eager to accept an England call, but my focus is to keep performing well at West Ham.”

Overcoming Injury Woes

After experiencing numerous injuries that limited his appearances for Newcastle, Wilson emphasizes the importance of maintaining fitness for his chances at a spot in the World Cup.

Welbeck: A Vintage Performance

Flourishing Late in Career

Danny Welbeck is enjoying a revival at Brighton, having garnered praise from his coach, Fabian Hurzeler, who described Welbeck as “like a fine red wine – he improves with age.” Hurzeler expressed his satisfaction with having Welbeck on the team as a leader and standout player.

Currently, Welbeck is the top English scorer in the Premier League this season, with seven goals, surpassing Wilson and Burnley’s Jaidon Anthony, who have four each. Unfortunately, injuries have plagued Welbeck’s career, restricting him to only 42 caps and 16 goals for England since his last international match in 2018.

Reflecting on his career, Welbeck revealed, “Injuries have kept me out for extended periods, but I’m now just grateful to be playing football and staying fit.” Despite his noteworthy start to the season, Welbeck was not selected for the upcoming matches against Serbia and Albania. However, he remains optimistic and down-to-earth regarding his England prospects, mentioning, “I take it game by game and week by week. I’m feeling great as I approach my 35th birthday this week.”

Hopeful Roads Ahead

Both Welbeck and Wilson anticipate the opportunity to discuss their potential futures with the England team. Tuchel has stated he will reach out to every player in contention to map out their paths for improving their chances at selection for the World Cup, leaving the door open for the veteran strikers.