The deft way in which Rodgers has taken to the England stage has posed a wonderful puzzle to Tuchel, and while the searing heat at next summer’s World Cup means he is likely to deploy “starters” and “finishers”, both Bellingham and Rodgers can do the same.
Rodgers has an ardent fan in Tuchel. He has made 10 appearances under his leadership, starting six games and playing a total of 531 minutes. Bellingham has made four starts, playing a total of 374 minutes.
Tuchel will not postpone big decisions. He won’t indulge in a star system or simply fill his team with the biggest names.
So who will start?
For all Rodgers’ impressive exploits, Bellingham has proven he can deliver game-changing moments at the highest level, his status also confirmed when Albania’s Kristjan Aslani asked him to change shirts at half-time rather than risk leaving it on until the end.
Phil Foden will be in Tuchel’s thinking, with the German saying he does not see the Manchester City forward as a winger, but rather as a “mix between a nine and 10”.
Chelsea’s Cole Palmer also has the ability and class to force his way into the team if he can recover from a groin injury.
However, in reality, it looks like a choice between Bellingham and Rodgers.
When Tuchel names his squad for England’s first World Cup game, Bellingham’s extensive experience of the rarefied air of major competitions will certainly give him an edge.