Josh King ready to play anywhere as he looks to seize England chance
Fulham teenager Josh King discusses earning his first senior England call-up under head coach Thomas Tuchel for the UEFA Nations League fixtures.
Fulham teenager Josh King is ready to play anywhere across the pitch after earning his first senior England call-up for the November UEFA Nations League fixtures. The 19-year-old playmaker was selected by England head coach Thomas Tuchel ahead of established stars such as Cole Palmer and Phil Foden. Tuchel’s squad selection follows a consistent approach from the previous international break in October, but introduces fresh attacking talent into the Three Lions camp.
King’s path to the senior squad began when he participated in a pre-World Cup training camp in the United States. Tuchel noted in September that the teenager was on the radar and very close to selection, though he initially faced stiff competition in the number 10 role from players like Jude Bellingham and Palmer. Palmer subsequently pulled out of a prior camp, which frustrated the manager, and was overlooked for the November double header alongside Foden.
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Reflecting on his prior experience in the United States, King described it as an amazing opportunity. He noted that although he did not make an appearance then, being in and around the group was incredible and provided a massive part of his journey that gave him the confidence to start the season so well.
Despite Fulham enduring a rocky start to the 2026–27 season, King has started every Premier League game and recorded three goal involvements. Fitness concerns briefly surfaced when he was substituted in the 72nd minute during a 1-1 draw against Newcastle. However, King dismissed any worry.
"It was more precautionary, I think. It was maybe a tight groin and I didn't want to overdo it. I couldn't turn down the call. I'm all good fitness wise,"
Josh King, Fulham midfielder, via AOL
Tuchel praised the youngster's attitude and highlighted his tactical flexibility. The manager stated that he wants to deploy King on both wings and noted that the player can cover all four attacking positions. Responding to the manager's tactical requests, King acknowledged that moving to wider roles requires defensive coverage inside and increased runs in behind.
"I’m happy to play anywhere for the manager, so I don’t think it changes my mindset, but I also think that I have to add other parts to my game,"
Josh King, Fulham midfielder, via Daily Echo
When asked about being selected while players like Palmer and Foden were left out, King expressed immense respect for the pair, calling them unbelievable football players he looked up to, while remaining thankful for the opportunity from Thomas Tuchel.
The November camp also features under-21s captain Jobe Bellingham, who joins his brother Jude in the squad. Tuchel explained that Jobe earned his place through consistent performances at Borussia Dortmund and steps into the group partly because Myles Lewis-Skelly is suspended for the match against Croatia. Tuchel also highlighted that the selection is an incredible achievement for the Bellingham family.
Additionally, the fixture brings a historic milestone for England captain Harry Kane. Thursday’s encounter at Wembley will see Kane win a record-breaking cap and celebrate landing the Ballon d’Or. King praised the captain as a great person and an even better football player, recalling that his own first England memory was the 2018 World Cup where Kane secured the Golden Boot.
Looking ahead, the Three Lions are preparing for their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Croatia and Spain during the November international window.
