Why is Loftus-Cheek Finally Back in the England Squad?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Loftus-Cheek's return marks a significant moment in his career after a long absence.
- Quansah's inclusion reflects the depth of talent available for England.
- Upcoming matches are crucial for World Cup qualifying.
- Team dynamics are evolving with new and returning players.
- U21 squad's matches will shape future talent for the senior team.
New Delhi, Sep 2 (NationPress) Ruben Loftus-Cheek from AC Milan and Jarell Quansah of Bayer Leverkusen have been included in England's senior squad.
The duo reported to St. George's Park on Tuesday, joining Thomas Tuchel’s expanded 25-man roster, while Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace is sidelined due to injury.
Midfielder Loftus-Cheek last represented the Three Lions back in November 2018 and has accumulated 10 caps during his international career.
Defender Quansah, who was part of the U21 EURO-winning team, has been part of the senior squads but is yet to earn his first cap.
As England resumes its quest for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, they will host Andorra at Villa Park on Saturday, September 6, followed by a match against Serbia in Belgrade on Tuesday, September 9.
In related news, Tom Watson from Brighton & Hove Albion has transitioned from the U20s to fill the gap left by Tyrique George in Lee Carsley’s U21 squad. Ben Chrisene from Norwich City and Sydie Peck from Sheffield United have also joined the England U21 setup.
They replace Rico Lewis and Nico O’Reilly from Manchester City, who remain at their club for further injury evaluations. Full-back Chrisene has one U21 cap, having made his debut against Spain in November 2024, while midfielder Peck has previously played for the Young Lions at U17 and U20 levels.
Lee Carsley’s U21 squad will kick off their 2027 UEFA U21 Euro qualifying campaign against Kazakhstan in Aktobe on Monday, September 8.
England Squad
Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), James Trafford (Manchester City)
Defenders: Dan Burn (Newcastle United), Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace), Reece James (Chelsea), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal), Tino Livramento (Newcastle United), Djed Spence (Tottenham Hotspur), John Stones (Manchester City)
Midfielders: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest), Jordan Henderson (Brentford), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)
Forwards: Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United), Eberechi Eze (Arsenal), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Noni Madueke (Arsenal), Marcus Rashford (Barcelona, on loan from Manchester United), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)