Why Thomas Tuchel is still ignoring Trent Alexander-Arnold as his England exile closes in on 500 days - and how he could have made all the difference against Spain, writes KIERAN GILL

As England's next international break approaches, Thomas Tuchel's decision to overlook Trent Alexander-Arnold is once again under scrutiny. The Liverpool right-back is nearing an astonishing 500 days since his last cap for the national team, leaving many fans and pundits questioning Tuchel's persistent exclusion of one of the Premier League's most dynamic players.

The Rationale Behind Tuchel's Decision

Tuchel's tactical preferences are well-documented. He favors a more defensively robust setup, which often sidelines players like Alexander-Arnold, whose attacking prowess sometimes comes at the cost of defensive solidity. Despite this, Alexander-Arnold's creativity and passing range are unparalleled, providing a unique asset that England sorely missed in their recent encounter with Spain.

England's Struggles Against Spain

In their latest matchup, England succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against Spain, a match that highlighted their lack of creativity and penetration from the right flank. While Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier offer defensive assurance, neither possess the same level of attacking threat as Alexander-Arnold. His ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and orchestrate play from deep could have been the key to unlocking Spain's disciplined defense.

A Potential Game-Changer

In a game where England struggled to break down a compact Spanish side, the introduction of Alexander-Arnold could have provided the necessary spark. His skill in transitioning play from defense to attack might have offered England more control in midfield and increased their attacking options. With Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane in fine form, having a provider like Alexander-Arnold could have been decisive.

Looking Ahead

As the countdown to Alexander-Arnold's 500-day international absence continues, the debate over his exclusion intensifies. England faces a crucial period with Euro qualifiers on the horizon, and Tuchel may need to reconsider his stance to inject fresh ideas into the squad. The Liverpool star's next opportunity to prove his worth on the international stage may be closer than expected if England's recent performances are anything to go by.

For now, fans can only speculate on what might have been, but the question remains: how much longer can Tuchel afford to ignore one of England's brightest talents?