ON THE RADAR: 6 England wildcards pushing for call-up as Tuchel set to announce squad for Three Lions clashes including marquee Spain fixture

The international break is almost here - but don't worry, it's only for two weeks this time.

England have all but sealed their place in the last eight of the Nations League next March, but they're still in with a chance of finishing first in their group and earning top-seed status in the quarter-finals. Thomas Tuchel's side will take on Croatia (home) and Spain (away) next Thursday and Sunday respectively.

Given the strength of opposition and what's at stake, Tuchel is expected to name a strong squad on Friday. But that doesn't mean it's a closed shop, with the opportunity for some wildcards to either be given their debuts or make a long-awaited return to the England setup.

Mirror Football has identified six players yet to feature under Tuchel who are in with a shout.

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Everton's Mr Consistent, Dewsbury-Hall has enjoyed a good start to the season with the Toffees and is deserving of call-up after coming close last time out. The midfielder may be 28, but it feels like his career is only just hitting its stride.

And if England don't tie Dewsbury-Hall down soon, they could risk losing him for good. The Everton star is eligible to play for the Republic of Ireland, although he's made it clear that his 'dream' is to play for the Three Lions.

Which uncapped player deserves an England call-up? Have your say in the comments section.

Captain of the Premier League's high flyers, Lewis Dunk must feel rather hard-done-by that he only has six England caps, the last of which came in June 2024 before he was cut by Gareth Southgate ahead of the European Championship. The Brighton defender has, like his team-mates, been outstanding this term, helping the Seagulls to wins against Aston Villa and Manchester City while keeping clean sheets.

At 34, age isn't on his side. But given that England aren't blessed with quality centre-back options, Tuchel might be inclined to reward Dunk for his form.

A few years ago, right-back was England's strongest position. Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, Reece James and Trent Alexander-Arnold were all in the mix, but things have changed.

With Walker and Trippier retired, James injured until around January and Alexander-Arnold third-choice at Real Madrid, there's an opening for Justin. The Leeds man has been solid defensively and a threat going forward as a right-sided centre-back, combining well with Jayden Bogle, who's also been tipped for a call-up.

Although Leeds haven't won any of their last five games, Justin has been a bright spark. His performance against Manchester United particularly stood out and Tuchel should be considering him.

On the winning side of Leeds' 1-0 defeat away to Bournemouth on Saturday was Tavernier, who's going through a purple patch as the Cherries enjoy an upturn in form. The 27-year-old has scored in victories over Sunderland, AC Milan and Manchester United, boosting his goal tally to six for the season.

Tavernier represented England at youth level but hasn't had a sniff in the senior squad. The winger, who's left-footed, faces stiff competition, but no one can argue with his form.

Returning to defence, Chelsea youngster Acheampong is making a name for himself at Stamford Bridge. Xabi Alonso has taken a liking to the 20-year-old and started him in every game since the international break when he played for England under-21s.

"I saw he did well with the Under-21s; I know he didn't play the last game but he has done well," Alonso hailed last month. "He has taken a step forward. He is playing more maturely and more aggressively, and is knowing what it takes to compete in the Premier League. He is on that journey as he has great potential and great qualities. He has played and he will play again."

Acheampong's ability to play as both a right-back and centre-back makes him an alternative to Ezri Konsa and Jarell Quansah in the current squad. Lee Carsley will want to have him stay with the U21s, but he's one to keep an eye on ahead of Friday's announcement.

A Championship player in the England squad? Lankshear really would be a wildcard.

But with 15 goals to his name since joining Middlesbrough from Tottenham in a deal worth up to £20million in July, he's put himself in the conversation to be Harry Kane's long-term successor. Lankshear scored one goal in six appearances for Spurs and has a desire to return to the Premier League quickly, with Boro currently top of the table after 13 games.

The former West Bromwich Albion and Oxford United loanee is another prospect who played under Carsley last month and he'll likely stay at U21 level for now. But with England looking towards Euro 2028, who's to say that Tuchel won't want a look at him?

Lankshear notably missed Boro's shock 2-0 defeat to Wrexham on Wednesday because of injury, but it isn't serious. Mirror Football has also taken a deep dive into Lankshear's rise, with his prolific performances earning him lofty comparisons to Alan Shearer.