England manager Thomas Tuchel appeared to deal a major blow to Harry Maguire's World Cup chances by insisting he remains at least the fifth central defender.
Maguire appeared to have strengthened his case for being on the plane to North America in the summer as he put in a commanding performance on his return to the national team set-up in Friday's 1-1 friendly draw with Uruguay.
It was his first appearance under Tuchel and he played the second half as captain in a polished performance that has characterized his England career.
The German acknowledged the Manchester United defender's strengths but said he remains behind Ezri Konsa, Marc Guéhi, John Stones and the injured Trevoh Chalobah in the pecking order.
“I got exactly what I thought: solid, solid central defense play,” Tuchel said.
“That's what he does. Very good with the ball, very calm, strong in the air and as a weapon for set pieces.
“I haven't changed my mind, but I see other players that I like as starters, I see other players ahead with a different profile.
“I see Ezri Konsa ahead, I see Marc Guehi ahead. It's no secret.
“I see Trevor Chalobah was slightly ahead of him in terms of mobility.
“So did John Stones, but he had injuries, so he needed to come to camp.
“I needed to meet him in person to see how he behaves within the group.
“He will stay with us.
“As I said, it is an asset, of course, that can also be very important in a tournament, in knockout football, in defending a lead and in chasing a game with crosses, long throw-ins and set pieces.”
Asked if he would be in the team if he had to be named now, Tuchel replied: “Yes, yes, yes. We don't need to name the team tomorrow. He played a good game.
“He did what he does for Man United. He did it straight away. I'm very happy with him. To be honest, I haven't changed my mind. I got everything I expected from him.
“If I have to name him tomorrow, we have a lot of injuries, he could be there. Who else would be in the center of defense?”
Stones sat out against Uruguay after feeling his calf in training as the 31-year-old's injury frustrations continue.
The Manchester City defender has played just five times for his club since the November international break and is struggling for a consistent run of appearances.
Despite this, Tuchel says he has “credit in the bank” and described him as “world class.”
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Tuchel was asked if he would make an exception for Stones due to their lack of playing time.
“I don't know yet, but if you come to the World Cup you should be fit,” Tuchel said.
“So when it came [to camp]I was in shape.
“He didn't have many minutes, but he has a level of understanding of the game.
“So the exception to the rule means he doesn't start much. I can see that because I'm a big fan and I know what he brings to the team in terms of personality, attitude and understanding of the quality game.”
