The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and with it, the question of who will make the England squad looms large. Among the players in the spotlight is Luke Shaw, a Manchester United full-back who has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. Despite missing the majority of the 2024-25 season, Shaw's recent form and experience could make him a strong contender for a call-up.
Shaw's return to fitness has been a welcome development for United, as he has started every league game and even managed to score a goal against Nottingham Forest. His performance and consistency have not gone unnoticed, with United boss Carrick expressing his belief that Shaw deserves an international recall.
However, Shaw's path to the World Cup may not be straightforward. The left-back position is a competitive one, with Lewis Hall, Nico O'Reilly, and Myles Lewis-Skelly all impressing in his absence. Shaw's injury history could be a concern, and his long layoff from the game may make it challenging for him to reclaim his place in the England squad.
Another player in the running is Morgan Gibbs-White, a midfielder who has enjoyed a superb season with Nottingham Forest. Gibbs-White's excellent form has seen him chip in with crucial goals and assists, helping Forest move clear of the relegation zone. Despite his impressive performances, Gibbs-White has been excluded from the past two England squads, and his competition in the midfield role is fierce.
Players like Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers, Phil Foden, and Cole Palmer are all among the options for the more advanced midfield role. Gibbs-White's goal-scoring prowess is a match for any of them, but whether Tuchel will turn to him ahead of these big-name players remains to be seen.
The 2026 World Cup is a significant tournament for England, and the squad selection will be a challenging task for the manager. With Shaw's experience and Gibbs-White's form, the competition for places is fierce, and the final decision will likely be a close one.
