Overview
- Thomas Tuchel published his final 26‑man World Cup squad on Friday, leaving out Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Harry Maguire while recalling Ivan Toney and Tottenham full‑back Djed Spence.
- Tuchel said he picked specialists to fit specific tactical roles, prioritising balance, set‑piece and penalty options over reputation when trimming a larger provisional group.
- Harry Maguire posted that he was “shocked and gutted” by his omission, and the selection has prompted widespread media and fan debate about Tuchel’s overhaul of established players.
- The EFL found Southampton guilty in the ‘Spygate’ case, described the conduct as deplorable, expelled them from the Championship play‑offs, docked four points next season and referred the matter to the FA, which restored Middlesbrough to the Wembley final.
- Middlesbrough face a fraught build‑up to the play‑off final with Hayden Hackney a possible return, Tommy Conway ruled out and several other players doubtful, a situation that also ends Conway’s World Cup chances.