Jude Bellingham of England to miss friendly match versus Japan – Thomas Tuchel

Jude Bellingham practiced with his teammates on the day before the friendly match against Japan; however, Thomas Tuchel does not intend to take any chances with the midfielder in England’s last game prior to finalizing his World Cup roster.
The 22-year-old is recovering from a hamstring injury that caused him distress at the beginning of February, having only returned to the field for Real Madrid as a late substitute eight days ago.
Bellingham has continued his rehabilitation with the England squad after being named in the 35-man roster for March, and Tuchel had initially hoped he could participate against Japan after missing Friday’s 1-1 draw with Uruguay.
Nevertheless, despite showing significant improvement and participating in Monday’s training session at Tottenham’s facility, Tuchel is expected to keep him on the sidelines at Wembley once more.
“I believe it’s too much of a risk,” the England head coach stated on BBC Radio 5 Live. “Therefore, the inclination is that he will not play.”
“We have all benefited from his presence. He performed well in training, but he was involved as a neutral participant. He did not take part in the entire training session.”
“So, it appeared very promising, but we are still holding him back to avoid any risks.”
“The injury is muscular, and it is quite specific, and we absolutely want to prevent any re-injury at this point in the season.”
“And for him as well, it was very positive that he was in camp. He was outstanding. However, the inclination is that he will not play.”
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Bellingham was one of 26 players who participated in Monday’s training session at Spurs’ advanced training facility.
Jordan Henderson, who captained the team against Uruguay, followed his own regimen indoors, separate from the main group.
The match at Wembley on Tuesday will allow both teams to utilize 11 substitutes.