As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup intensifies, West Ham United's Jarrod Bowen is making a compelling case for his inclusion in the England squad, positioning himself as a potential rival to established stars like Phil Foden and Cole Palmer. With the tournament set to take place in North America, Bowen is determined to prove his worth to England manager Thomas Tuchel and secure his place on the plane.

Bowen's recent performances for both club and country have been impressive. In the Premier League this season, he has scored 3 goals in 11 matches for West Ham. His contributions extend beyond goal-scoring, as he also has 4 goals+assists, showcasing his ability to create opportunities for his teammates. His versatility and work ethic make him a valuable asset to any team.

Bowen's international appearances have further bolstered his candidacy. He was included in the England squad for a friendly against Wales and a World Cup qualifier against Latvia, demonstrating Tuchel's recognition of his talent. Although he sometimes struggles to get a starting position, Bowen has been called up for England numerous times. In a recent match against Albania, Bowen played for 75 minutes and "proved in all other aspects that he can compete".

However, Bowen faces stiff competition from other talented English players, most notably Phil Foden and Cole Palmer. Foden, who plays as a midfielder for Manchester City, has been a key player for both club and country. In the Premier League this season, Foden has scored 1 goal in 9 matches. Foden's ability to influence play from various depths enhances his effectiveness as a versatile threat to opposition defenses.

Cole Palmer has also emerged as a star for Chelsea, playing as an attacking midfielder or winger. Palmer has been instrumental in Chelsea's success, helping them win the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. He was also named man of the match in the UEFA Conference League final and received the Golden Ball as the best player in the FIFA Club World Cup. In the 2023-24 season, Palmer had the most goal involvements of any other player in the Premier League.

The competition for places in the England squad is fierce, and Tuchel faces a challenging task in selecting his final 23-man team. Bowen's advantage lies in his versatility and proven ability to perform in crucial moments. He is also a dedicated and hard-working player, willing to put in the effort required to succeed at the highest level.

Ultimately, whether Jarrod Bowen makes the World Cup squad will depend on his performances in the upcoming months and Tuchel's assessment of the team's needs. However, Bowen is undoubtedly in the mix and has the talent and determination to stake his claim. His ability to score goals, create chances, and work tirelessly for the team makes him a valuable asset, and he will be doing everything in his power to convince Tuchel that he deserves a place on the plane to North America.