Why has Tuchel called up 35-year-old goalkeeper with no EPL caps this season

Jason Steele’s unexpected inclusion in Thomas Tuchel’s 35‑man England squad for the upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan has raised eyebrows, given the 35‑year‑old Brighton goalkeeper has not played a single Premier League minute this season. Steele has featured only five times across domestic cups, making his selection one of the most surprising decisions in Friday’s announcement. 

While the returns of Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo drew attention, and the absences of Luke Shaw and Trent Alexander‑Arnold sparked debate, Steele’s call‑up generated the most curiosity. According to English media reports, the reasoning is straightforward: the veteran is being lined up as England’s training goalkeeper for the 2026 World Cup. 

Bringing him into the squad now allows him to integrate early with the goalkeeping group competing for the starting role. Tuchel’s staff view these March friendlies as the ideal moment to familiarise Steele with the setup ahead of the tournament’s intense preparation phase.