England star faces fresh injury blow as Tuchel fears ‘race against time’
Jude Bellingham is a major doubt for England’s upcoming matches against Uruguay and Japan amid fears his hamstring injury will now sideline him for up to eight weeks.
The 22-year-old Galactico initially damaged the muscle against Rayo Vallecano earlier this month, with initial prognosis suggesting a four-week absence.
However, fresh medical assessments from Madrid indicate a more severe issue requiring a recovery period stretching potentially to two months.
Tuchel admits concern over midfield ace
If these worst-case fears are realized, the former Birmingham City prodigy faces a significant struggle to prove his fitness for the Wembley double-header at the end of March.
England manager Thomas Tuchel addressed the situation at Thursday’s Nations League draw, acknowledging the difference in opinion regarding the rehabilitation timeline.
“The club is a bit more defensive on the outlook regarding the weeks of his recovery,” the German coach revealed.
“Jude is pushing, and as we know him, he is determined and super professional. He will try everything to be with us in March.”
Wembley return in doubt
Tuchel remains hopeful but realistic about the prospect of having the Los Blancos talisman available for selection.
“Of course we are in contact, that is a normal thing to do, and we wish him all the best,” he added.
“Whatever we can do for him, we will help and support him. It is a little race against time.”
When pressed on his personal gut feeling regarding the availability of the 46-cap international, Tuchel offered a candid assessment.
“Personally, I am optimistic, but I am not sure.”
World Cup plans in focus
Any prolonged absence would represent a significant tactical headache for the Three Lions boss just months before the World Cup.
While the Stourbridge-born playmaker’s status has faced speculation recently – with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers impressing in the number 10 role – he remains pivotal to long-term plans.
Tuchel still views the La Liga star as a cornerstone of his squad, with the final selection deadline for the summer tournament looming in May.