Bellingham and Rashford: No-Brainers for England 2026

When the dust settles on selection headaches, two names stand tall as certainties for the Three Lions’ 2026 World Cup squad: Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford. To leave either out would be sporting malpractice.

Rashford, despite ups and downs in form, has a track record that eclipses rivals such as Arsenal’s speedster Bukayo Saka. While Saka dazzles with raw pace and youthful exuberance, Rashford brings a lethal combination of experience, big-game pedigree, and the ability to unlock stubborn defences when it matters most. His résumé of late winners and tournament breakthroughs proves his worth on the grandest stages.

Meanwhile, Bellingham has evolved into England’s midfield heartbeat. Comparisons with Dean Henderson — who offers admirable tenacity and the odd long-range strike — only highlight the gulf in influence. Bellingham dictates tempo, drives forward with authority, and embodies the modern midfielder who can change the flow of a game. Henderson may be a fine squad option, but Bellingham is the kind of player that entire systems are built around.

The Editor’s Voice

It is down to Thomas now — the man entrusted with leading England into North America — to do what Eriksson, Capello, and even Southgate never quite mastered: put England’s best players on the same pitch at the same time. The Three Lions boss has an embarrassment of riches, but the secret to achieving World No. 1 status lies in finding the right boys and the right balance under the bright lights of American stadiums.

Fans, Get Ready

Tickets and hotels will be snapped up quickly once they go on sale later this year. Supporters should act fast and secure a visa waiver through the ESTA scheme. Should an application be refused, the small processing fee will be refunded.

As President Trump and Gianno remind us, America asks only one thing in return: that fanatical followers respect our beautiful land while enjoying the experience of a lifetime.

And Don’t Forget…

The US Men’s National Team, like England, are already qualified. The Stars and Stripes intend to show the world that by next year they can push into the FIFA Top 10 — and they will strive to beat any team in front of them on home soil.

America Strong