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After achieving six consecutive triumphs out of six, an unbreached defense and a World Cup spot secured with two group games to spare, national team coach Thomas Tuchel could suggest he has chosen wisely throughout qualification.

Yet, in the build-up to Thursday's home game against Serbia, he raised questions when he said that three of the country's best players - Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Harry Kane - are unable to feature in the identical lineup.

"Presently, if we keep the structure, they cannot play.

"They can but not within this system, not for the balance that we created and not within the framework that also includes wingers who are highly specialized in their positions. We presently employ with specific numbered positions."

From guaranteed positions to competitive roles

Foden and Bellingham have been deployed on the flanks for England in the past, but the manager's choices imply that the Manchester United forward and the Gunners' star are his first choices on the left and right flank respectively.

But can Bellingham, Foden and Kane operate simultaneously?

Gareth Southgate apparently believed they could.

Bellingham, Foden and Kane were selected for each England's seven fixtures at Euro 2024 in Germany, where the England team lost to Spain in the final.

In the 16 fixtures the stars have performed simultaneously, England have secured 10 victories, drawn three and lost three, scoring 36 times and conceding 14.

Analysis: Foden's versatility gives Tuchel options

Tuchel has employed a four-two-three-one setup that transforms formation when England attack.

The Aston Villa player has been the key creative force because of his impressive ball progression, ball-striking and skill in entering the penalty area when the striker drops deep.

Tuchel has mentioned preferring dedicated wide players. The wide attackers regularly feature on the wings and can maintain possession effectively, challenge defenders, and enter the area to finish.

Behind this front four, Tuchel employs a double pivot consisting of a disciplined defensive presence and another with greater freedom to contribute to the attack.

So how could Tuchel use these three players?

Foden and Bellingham would be vying against attacking alternatives for the attacking midfield position, with Kane expected to lead up front.

Foden could operate as the central striker, which potentially could enable both Bellingham and Foden to play at Kane's expense.

There is an alternative approach all three could coexist effectively and Tuchel suggested it this week.

"With his club, he plays almost like a number eight or 10, so perhaps in coming months we regard him as a box-to-box player," he said.

Foden has been deployed in a versatile central position this season.

That has allowed him to take responsibility deeper and could position him as the central midfielder, paired with a defensive anchor.

This would then permit Bellingham to feature as the creative force and Kane as the nine.

No matter whether Tuchel opts to structure the side like this at the international competition, what seems encouraging is his preparedness to omit established stars in the pursuit of tactical equilibrium.