Alexander-Arnold dropped, Rashford recalled in Tuchel's England squad

LONDON :England have left defender Trent Alexander-Arnold out of the squad for next month's World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia but have brought back Marcus Rashford, with coach Thomas Tuchel citing fierce competition for places.

Barcelona's on-loan striker Rashford and midfielder Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace return to the squad, along with Manchester City centre-back John Stones, who missed much of last season through injury.

"We decided for a tighter, more competitive squad ..." Tuchel told reporters on Friday.

"There is no doubt I am a big fan of Trent and Jack Grealish," the German added, having also left the on-loan Everton winger out of the squad.

"Big players and big personalities, always in the mix. I know both are desperate ... The competition is up. They will stay in the mix. They (need to) have more rhythm."

Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson and Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence have been called up for the first time after impressive starts to the season.

Tuchel called the Stones decision "a no-brainer," saying he brings "the full package."

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire, Burnley full back Kyle Walker and striker Ivan Toney of Saudi club Al-Ahli were all left out. Bukayo Saka, Cole Palmer and Jude Bellingham are missing due to injury.

Group K leaders England play Andorra at Villa Park on September 6 and Serbia three days later in Belgrade.

TOUGH START

The 26-year-old Alexander-Arnold has had a difficult start to his La Liga career, losing his starting place last week to Dani Carvajal.

He was part of Tuchel's squad for June games against Andorra and Senegal, but the manager warned then that Alexander-Arnold must work on the defensive side of his game.

"I can see that sometimes he