England’s senior football team welcomed a fresh injection of youthful talent on Tuesday afternoon as manager Thomas Tuchel invited three standout Under-21s stars to train with the senior squad. Southampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, and Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap joined the Three Lions at St George’s Park, offering a glimpse of the next generation as Tuchel prepares his side for upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The move signals Tuchel’s intent to blend experience with emerging talent as he continues to shape his England squad following his appointment last year. With qualifiers against Albania and Latvia looming this month, the German tactician took the opportunity to assess the promising trio, all of whom have been making waves at club level and with the England Under-21s.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis, a commanding centre-back, has been a cornerstone for Southampton in the Premier League this season. The 23-year-old, who already has one senior cap to his name after scoring on his debut against Ireland in November 2024, brings a blend of defensive solidity and leadership honed as a former Under-21s captain. His inclusion in the training session underscores his growing reputation as a potential mainstay in England’s backline.
Adam Wharton, a 21-year-old midfielder from Crystal Palace, has been turning heads with his composure and passing range in the Premier League. Despite being overlooked for Tuchel’s initial 26-man senior squad earlier this month, Wharton’s consistent performances have earned him this chance to impress. Many see him as a natural fit to partner Declan Rice in midfield, with his progressive playstyle drawing comparisons to some of England’s finest technicians.
Completing the trio is Liam Delap, the 22-year-old Ipswich Town striker who has taken the Premier League by storm with 10 goals this season. Delap, who joined the Tractor Boys from Manchester City last summer, has showcased his physicality and clinical finishing, making a compelling case for a senior call-up. While he remains part of the Under-21s setup for their upcoming friendlies against France and Portugal, his presence at St George’s Park suggests Tuchel is keeping a close eye on his development.
The training session, held on Tuesday afternoon, saw the young trio integrate with England’s established stars as Tuchel put his squad through their paces. With Chelsea forward Cole Palmer absent due to an ongoing injury assessment, the door was open for Harwood-Bellis, Wharton, and Delap to stake their claims. The session marked the first time Tuchel worked with his full complement of players, following a lighter Monday workout impacted by club commitments.
England fans and pundits alike have welcomed the inclusion of the Under-21s prospects, with many viewing it as a sign of Tuchel’s long-term vision. The trio’s involvement comes amid growing excitement about the depth of talent in England’s youth ranks, with the Young Lions boasting a squad some argue could rival the senior team in quality.