Thierry Henry names barely used England star as crucial asset for Tuchel’s World Cup plans

France and Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has tipped one England star to have a huge impact in Thomas Tuchel’s squad beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With the March international break upon us, attention turns to England’s friendly fixtures against Uruguay and Japan.

Ahead of the matches, Tuchel announced a 35-man squad, with several players – such as Manchester United duo Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire – recalled after missing out in November.

Everton’s James Garner also received his first senior call-up after impressing for the Toffees.

Usual suspects Jordan Pickford, Harry Kane and Declan Rice made the squad, while Manchester City starlet Nico O’Reilly will be hoping to add to his two international caps after what has been a stellar week for the 21-year-old.

Last Sunday (22 March), the City academy graduate had a day to remember, scoring twice in Pep Guardiola’s side’s 2–0 Carabao Cup final victory over Arsenal – which came the day after his 21st birthday.

O’Reilly’s versatility has proven valuable for Guardiola this season, with the youngster featuring 44 times across four competitions – the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, Carabao Cup and FA Cup.

But could he make his first appearance at a major international tournament at this summer’s World Cup?

Henry thinks so.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with SPORTbible, the former Arsenal forward praised O’Reilly’s performances.

Nico O'Reilly has impressed Thierry Henry (Credit:Getty)

When asked who he believes has a bright future in the national team, Henry replied: “I’ve been saying to everybody, I’ve been impressed with O’Reilly for a very long time because of how versatile he is, because of the multiple positions that he can play.

“You know, we all know – I think he has a background as a holding midfielder. This guy is playing left-back, inside, behind the nine, sometimes deep, and he looks like he’s doing okay with it. So, like I said, I would like to see how he’s going to evolve because I like the way he reads the game. To be able to play in Pep’s team and do what Pep is asking tactically, you’ve got to be sharp.”

Ahead of the March internationals, O’Reilly has two England caps to his name, with the 21-year-old getting the nod in World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania.

“Hopefully, he can stay injury-free and keep his head on his shoulders,” Henry continued.

“I can see how he can be a good asset for England. But once again, Thomas Tuchel is the coach… let’s see how far he can go. As I said, you can never tell what the future holds.”

Henry was speaking to SPORTbible in association with the “No Lay’s, No Game” campaign, which will see icons Alexia Putellas, Lionel Messi, David Beckham, Steve Carell and the Arsenal legend chat to fans in a legendary WhatsApp group chat.

Supporters can join the chat and see exactly what the five personalities get up to, with access to voice notes, memes, genuine debate and even some hilarious banter.

Fans can also tune in to the epic watch party chat until the end of the FIFA World Cup at nolaysnogame.com/epicwatchparty.

Lays will also be crowning a Fan of the Match in all 104 matches, with winners awarded pitch-side access, premium match tickets, halftime stadium recognition on the jumbotron, and a custom Lay's Fan of the Match trophy. Fans globally can enter to be the Fan of the Match at nolaysnogame.com/FOTM.