Players with exceptional quality and character will always have a chance to be included in England's World Cup squad, manager Thomas Tuchel said, as he takes a step-by-step approach to building the team.

Tuchel retained the squad from last month's Group K qualifying wins against Andorra and Serbia for Thursday's friendly match against Wales and a World Cup qualifier against Latvia, omitting high-profile names such as Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden.

Injuries also ruled out captain Harry Kane, Reece James and Noni Madueke, all of whom starred in the 5-0 win over Serbia.

Despite the absences, Tuchel's decision was vindicated as England secured an eighth successive victory over Wales at Wembley.

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