The 26-year-old has been a consistent presence in the Blues side this term, excelling both in defence and in midfield across 38 appearances in all competitions.

James has been capped 22 times by the Three Lions and was part of the England squad that reached the European Championship final in 2021.

He will return to familiar territory during this summer’s tournament, as England’s third group-stage takes place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the scene of our Club World Cup final triumph over Paris Saint-Germain.

James is included in the squad alongside Chelsea Academy graduates Marc Guehi and Tino Livramento.

England squad for the 2026 World Cup

Jordan Pickford
Dean Henderson
James Trafford

Ezri Konsa
John Stones
Marc Guehi
Dan Burn
Jarell Quansah
Tino Livramento
Djed Spence
Reece James
Nico O'Reilly

Declan Rice
Elliot Anderson
Kobbie Mainoo
Jordan Henderson
Jude Bellingham
Morgan Rogers
Eberechi Eze

Harry Kane
Ivan Toney
Ollie Watkins
Bukayo Saka
Noni Madueke
Anthony Gordon
Marcus Rashford