England head coach Thomas Tuchel has identified Jude Bellingham as a potential striking option for the national team, recognising the need for alternatives to Harry Kane despite the 33-year-old's continued excellence. Whilst Kane scored again in England's 2-0 victory over Czechia in the Nations League on Tuesday, moving to 87 international goals, concerns exist regarding the depth of attacking options available to Tuchel. The manager used Bellingham as a No. 9 during the closing stages of the Prague match and suggested he could fill the role permanently, noting that a direct replacement for Kane will not be found.

Bellingham is capable of playing either as a central striker or a No. 10, with Tuchel praising his ability to contribute defensively and create overload play on the wings. The Real Madrid midfielder is a natural goalscorer with ambitions to find the back of the net, making him suitable for either position. England's current attacking alternatives are limited, with Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney overlooked for the squad, whilst Dominic Calvert-Lewin (aged 29 with four goals in 13 caps) represents the primary backup option. Trent Alexander-Arnold impressed on his return to international football after an absence since June 2025, providing the assist for Anthony Gordon's opening goal.