Jordan Henderson has been included in Thomas Tuchel’s latest England squad, with the Brentford midfielder selected for Wembley friendlies against Uruguay and Japan as preparations continue for the 2026 World Cup
Jordan Henderson has been named in the latest England squad after Thomas Tuchel selected a 35-man group for this month’s friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. The Brentford midfielder is included among the midfield options for the two Wembley fixtures, which form part of England’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
England face Uruguay at Wembley on Friday, March 27 before taking on Japan on Tuesday, March 31. Tuchel has chosen a larger squad than usual for this camp, explaining that players will arrive in two stages across the international window as he continues to assess the wider group ahead of the tournament this summer.
Henderson retains his England place
From a Brentford perspective, Henderson’s inclusion is the main point of note. He is listed among Tuchel’s midfield options alongside Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Kobbie Mainoo and Morgan Rogers, which underlines the depth of talent England have available. Tough competition for Henderson to compete for one of the central positions for the World Cup.
The squad announcement also gives the call-up added significance. Tuchel said the larger group is designed to “open up the picture” for World Cup places, with some players joining later in the window, so these fixtures are about more than simple preparation. They form part of England’s final assessment process before the summer.
That makes Henderson’s place in the squad notable in itself. At 35, he is one of the more experienced players in the group, and his inclusion suggests Tuchel still values the leadership, control and tactical discipline he can offer, even as England continue to assess a broader pool of midfield options.
Henderson has also become a regular part of the wider England setup again after being left out of the squad for Euro 2024, and this latest call-up is another indication that he remains in serious contention heading into the World Cup.
What it means for Brentford
For Brentford, the call-up is another sign of Henderson’s standing since his move to west London. England have named him in a squad that blends returning players, first-time selections and established internationals, suggesting his performances for the Bees have not gone unnoticed. He has made 30 appearances in all competitions this season as Brentford push for a European place in the closing weeks of the campaign.
It also means Brentford will send another senior player away on international duty at a demanding stage of the season. Henderson’s inclusion adds to the workload being carried by key figures as the run-in begins to take shape.