England’s World Cup 2026 squad: Who’s on the plane, who’s almost there and who has work to do?

England manager Thomas Tuchel is set to have discussions with midfielder Jude Bellingham regarding his potential selection for the upcoming World Cup. While Tuchel acknowledges the importance of these talks, he also emphasizes that there are no guarantees for Bellingham's inclusion in the squad. This situation is significant as it highlights the competitive nature of international football and the challenges players face in securing their spots on the national team.

As the Cricket World Cup progresses, England and India are vying for a spot in the semi-finals alongside Australia. The outcomes of their upcoming matches will be crucial in determining who advances. This is significant not only for the teams involved but also for fans who are eager to see how the tournament unfolds.

Alyssa Healy has once again showcased her incredible talent by scoring her second consecutive century, leading Australia to a commanding 10-wicket victory over Bangladesh. This win not only highlights Healy's prowess but also secures Australia's spot in the World Cup semi-finals, making it a significant moment for the team as they aim for the championship.

FIGC President Gabriele Gravina has defended Italy's decision to play against Israel, expressing confusion over calls for a boycott. He questioned whether the team should be penalized by missing out on the World Cup due to political pressures. This stance highlights the ongoing debate about sports and politics, and the implications of boycotting events based on international relations.

The Seychelles national football team has had a rough week, suffering two crushing defeats in just four days, both ending in a staggering 7-0 scoreline against Gambia and Ivory Coast. This string of losses highlights the challenges faced by the team as they compete on the international stage, raising concerns about their performance and future in the World Cup qualifiers.

The A-League Men is set to kick off its 21st season, bringing excitement to Australian football as it coincides with a World Cup year. Despite ongoing concerns about broadcasting deals and salary caps, players are motivated to shine on the field. This season is particularly significant as it offers a chance for the league to showcase its talent and potentially attract more fans, which is crucial for the sport's growth in Australia.

Michelle Agyemang, the talented forward from England and Arsenal, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Golden Girl 2025 award, recognizing her as one of the top under-21 female players in Europe. This nomination highlights her impressive skills and contributions to the sport, making her a role model for aspiring athletes. Agyemang's recognition not only celebrates her individual achievements but also shines a light on the growing prominence of women's football.

Harry Brook has emphasized that the England cricket team is focused solely on their upcoming T20 series against New Zealand, with no discussions about the Ashes. This approach highlights the team's commitment to staying present and preparing effectively for the immediate challenges ahead. With Tim Southee stepping into a coaching role, the dynamics of the series are set to be intriguing, making it essential for England to concentrate on their performance rather than future tournaments.

Angel Gomes, who recently joined Marseille from Lille, is eager to make his mark in the Premier League and represent England. His transition to a new team under coach Roberto De Zerbi has been challenging but exciting. This matters because Gomes is a rising talent, and his success could inspire young players and enhance England's football prospects.

Olivier Giroud, at 39, reflects on his illustrious career, revealing that Celtic and Middlesbrough once vied for his signature. This insight into his journey highlights the competitive nature of football transfers and the enduring appeal of seasoned players, showcasing how clubs seek experienced talent to bolster their squads.

Lautaro Martinez, the captain of Inter Milan, is setting ambitious goals for the 2026 World Cup as he aims to help Argentina defend their title. In a recent interview, he emphasized the importance of focusing on his club commitments first, showcasing his dedication to both his team and national pride. This determination not only highlights his personal aspirations but also reflects Argentina's strong football legacy, making fans excited about the upcoming tournament.

Patrick Kluivert has been dismissed as the head coach of the Indonesian national football team following their failure to qualify for the World Cup. This decision, reached by mutual agreement, highlights the challenges faced by the team and the high expectations surrounding their performance. Kluivert's departure marks a significant shift in Indonesia's football strategy as they seek to improve their standing in international competitions.

Ashton Jeanty, the rookie running back for the Raiders, is making waves in the NFL as he switches agencies ahead of Week 7. With impressive stats, including 68 carries for 282 yards, Jeanty has quickly become a key player in Las Vegas' offense. This agency switch could signify his rising profile in the league, making it an important move for his career as he continues to establish himself as one of the standout first-year players.

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, the new guard for the Memphis Grizzlies, is making waves not just for his basketball skills but also for addressing the misconception that Memphis is an unsafe city. After his trade from the Orlando Magic, he has taken the opportunity during preseason to advocate for the community, emphasizing its positive aspects and challenging negative stereotypes. This stance is significant as it highlights the importance of community perception and pride, especially for a city that has faced its share of challenges.

As USC prepares for its last scheduled game against Notre Dame this Saturday, Colin Cowherd raises an interesting question about the future of this storied rivalry. The discussion highlights the significance of maintaining such matchups in college football, as they not only bring excitement to fans but also impact team legacies and recruiting. The outcome of this game could influence whether USC decides to continue this historic rivalry, making it a topic worth following.

The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for their Week 7 game against the Arizona Cardinals, and there's good news regarding wide receiver Christian Watson. Head coach Matt LaFleur shared an important update, indicating that Watson, who has been recovering from a significant knee injury, is making progress. This is crucial for the Packers as they look to strengthen their offense and improve their chances in the NFL season.

As the Pittsburgh Steelers gear up to face the Cincinnati Bengals, there's buzz around their potential to start the season with a 5-1 record. Colin Cowherd advises fans to temper their excitement, pointing out that the Steelers have had a relatively easy schedule so far. This discussion is important as it highlights the balance between optimism and realism in sports, reminding fans to consider the context of their team's performance.

In the latest Women's Champions League match, Atlético Madrid faces Manchester United. The game is notable for the absence of Jess Park, who has been ruled out due to concussion protocol, with Rolfö stepping in as her replacement. This match is significant as it highlights the ongoing commitment to player safety in sports, particularly regarding head injuries, while also showcasing the competitive spirit of women's football.