Clinton Morrison: I'm 50/50 on Phil Foden going to 2026 World Cup!
As the international break draws to a close, and with England's place at next year's World Cup officially confirmed, a lot of questions have been asked as to whether Thomas Tuchel's squad is equipped to go the distance in the U.S in 2026.
Former Premier League icon and Sky Sports pundit, Clinton Morrison, has had his say on some of the biggest talking points surrounding the Three Lions set up, as well a preview for the return of Premier League action.
Find out what Clinton had to say looking ahead to this weekend's action with Free Bets.
Can England Win the 2026 World Cup?
One of the main talking points this week has, of course, been England. They’ve now qualified for next year’s World Cup — six wins, 18 goals, and none conceded. What have you made of England under Thomas Tuchel so far?
They’ve been very good, haven’t they? As you said, no goals conceded, and Tuchel has given a lot of players opportunities. You expected England to get out of that group anyway, given the quality and depth of players they have — even those injured or not selected could walk into most international teams.
It’s a great achievement to qualify, but the job doesn’t stop there. Tuchel was brought in to win the World Cup. That’s when we’ll really judge him. For now, he’s done what’s been asked — you can only beat what’s in front of you, and England have done that. Now they’ll look forward to America next summer and try to go all the way.
The goal is clearly to win the World Cup. Have you seen enough to make you think England can do it? They’ve come close under Gareth Southgate — is this squad ready to take that final step?
It’s always tough. England are great in qualifiers, but tournaments are a different story. To be fair to Southgate, he came closer than anyone in recent history. The challenge this time is that it’ll be played in America — the heat will be difficult, and some teams will be more used to it.
That said, if Tuchel selects the right squad and keeps his key players fit, England have a real chance. They’ve got world-class players who can go toe-to-toe with any nation. I wouldn’t call them favourites, but they’ll be in the conversation if things click.
Tuchel’s also given chances to players who weren’t guaranteed starters before — and some now look undroppable. The manager has some big selection decisions, particularly in the No. 10 position: Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, and Eberechi Eze are all options. Surely not all of them can go, so if someone had to miss out, who would it be? For example, is Bellingham a guaranteed pick?
Jude’s guaranteed to be on that plane, no question.
What about Foden?
Foden has a chance, but I think his best position might be out wide rather than as a No. 10. Personally, I’d take him — he’s too talented not to — but Tuchel’s loyal to the players who’ve delivered for him. So right now, I’d say it’s 50/50, though Foden should absolutely be there.
Could someone like Jack Grealish be added to the conversation?
I love Jack. He’s a special player and brings something different — he wins fouls, slows games down, and takes the pressure off. But again, competition is fierce. I’d have him there, but his inclusion probably depends on injuries and balance in the squad. He and Foden are both 50/50 at the moment.
Let’s talk about Adam Wharton. He’s impressed at Crystal Palace this season but missed the last squad through injury. How important is it that he’s given his chance?
Very important. Elliot Anderson’s been brilliant and deserves his place, but Wharton’s another top talent. He just needs to stay fit. Without that injury, I think he would’ve been called up already.
He’s got that calmness on the ball — a natural left-footer who dictates play. Even if he doesn’t go to this World Cup, he’ll be an England regular for years to come. It might come a little too soon this time, but I’d love to see him involved. There should be room for him.
Quick-fire now — players who may or may not make the squad. Kyle Walker?
No, I think his time has passed.
Trent Alexander-Arnold?
50/50. I’d take him, but Tuchel hasn’t used him much when fit.
Trevoh Chalobah?
No.
Harry Maguire, Eric Dier?
No to both.
Jarrad Branthwaite?
Future talent, but probably not yet — unless injuries open a spot.
Aaron Ramsdale, Nick Pope?
Neither.
Conor Gallagher, Curtis Jones?
Gallagher no; Jones maybe if injuries hit, but probably not.
Harvey Elliott, Kobbie Mainoo, Dominic Solanke, Ivan Toney?
All no.
And finally, Jobe Bellingham?
Too early. He’s got huge potential but needs regular club football first. Jude will obviously go, but Jobe’s time will come.
Turning to the Republic of Ireland — they’ve had mixed results, but still have a chance in their group. What have you made of their performances against Portugal and Armenia?
The Armenia result was positive, but playing Portugal and Hungary is tough. Hungary have top players, so it was always going to be a battle. The draw between Hungary and Portugal actually helped Ireland. It gives them a fighting chance to finish second.
It’s slim, but possible. They’ll need a huge performance in November — against Portugal and then Hungary. Realistically, it’s about a five per cent chance, but stranger things have happened. If they pulled it off, it’d be one of the country’s greatest achievements.
Return of Club Football!
Back to club football now — the Premier League has had a chaotic start. Who’s impressed you most so far?
Bournemouth and Palace. Both have been excellent. Their managers have them playing great football — Bournemouth with players like Semenyo, Evanilson and Kluivert, and Palace with Sarr, Guehi, Wharton and Mateta.
Both have exceptional managers, which is why both are being linked with the top jobs in Europe. And they go head-to-head this weekend, which will be a super contest!
Arsenal are top despite people saying they’ve started slowly, and their run of fixtures looks very promising on paper.
A lot of people have Arsenal as favourites right now, but I’m not convinced. I still think when it clicks with Liverpool and their new additions start to gel, I’d make them favourites to win the league.
It’s wide open, though. City are in the reckoning too, especially with Haaland in form — he’s taken his game to another level. It’s shaping up to be a brilliant title race.
Even the promoted teams have surprised me this season and have been super competitive. Burnley and Leeds meet at the weekend, and Sunderland host Wolves, who are in serious trouble if they can’t get results in their upcoming matches against Sunderland and Burnley.
Arsenal face Fulham and Palace next. How do you see those matches?
Both will be tough. Fulham away isn’t easy, and Palace are dangerous, especially tactically under Glasner. If it were at Selhurst Park, I’d even fancy Palace. But at the Emirates, Arsenal will have the edge. Still, I wouldn’t write Palace off.
With Martin Ødegaard injured, Eze has a chance to make his mark at Arsenal. What have you made of his start there?
He’s done well. Took a bit of time to settle, but now he looks confident. When Ødegaard returns, he’ll probably come straight back in — he’s the captain and a key player. But Eze offers flexibility; Arteta can use both in different systems. Arsenal’s depth gives them that luxury.
Liverpool vs Manchester United
Looking ahead to Liverpool versus Manchester United — which manager is under more pressure right now?
Honestly, neither massively. But it’s a big game for Liverpool after three straight defeats. They need a response if they’re serious about the title. United will always turn up in big games, but the pressure’s more on Liverpool at the moment.
Liverpool started strongly but have wobbled recently. Do you think this is just a blip?
Yes. They’ve had a tough run — Arsenal, Newcastle, Chelsea — and still picked up results. It’s a sign of champions when you win while not playing well. Slot’s integrating new players, which takes time. Once Wirtz and Isak really click, Liverpool will kick on. I’m not worried — they’ve got too much quality.
And on United — Sir Jim Ratcliffe has publicly backed Ruben Amorim. Do you think he’ll last the season, even if results continue to go against them?
Because of that statement, probably yes. Performances have been inconsistent, but if they can get a run going, he’ll steady things. I’d like to see Kobbie Mainoo alongside Bruno Fernandes — he adds energy. A few weeks ago, I’d have said he might not last until the next break, but now I think he’ll see out the season.
Coventry & Birmingham City
Looking at the Championship, Coventry remain the only unbeaten side in the division. What’s impressed you most about Frank Lampard’s side?
They’ve been outstanding — scoring freely, defending well, and getting contributions from all over the pitch. Frank’s recruited smartly — players like Milan van Ewijk at right-back have been brilliant. Their best player, Jack Rudoni, hasn’t even hit top form yet. I tipped them for the play-offs, but they could push for automatic promotion if they keep this up.
And what about Birmingham? One win in five league matches — should fans be concerned?
Not really. They’ve been inconsistent, but the manager’s doing a good job. The ownership backs him and will likely invest again in January if they’re close to the play-offs. The Championship’s tough — there are ex-Premier League clubs with big budgets. Birmingham just need to turn draws into wins, and they’ll be in the mix.
Final question — if you were offered two different scenarios: Birmingham and Coventry both win promotion, or Crystal Palace qualify for the Champions League, which would you choose?
That’s cruel! I love Birmingham and Coventry — great clubs, great memories. But I spent nine and a half years at Palace. Seeing them in the Champions League would be a dream come true. Ideally, though, I’d take both — Palace in Europe, Birmingham and Coventry promoted. That’d be the perfect season.
