BY ANDREW MCSTEEN
Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson is hoping to impress new England manager Thomas Tuchel in training at St. George’s Park this week and with it, grab the number one position for the upcoming World Cup 2026 Qualifiers against Albania and Latvia at Wembley this week – and with it, be in the leading position for the event itself next year.
With just one further appearance for the national team since his debut in November 2020, despite being a regular feature in the squads, Henderson is hoping to replace long-term shot stopper Jordan Pickford to become number one choice under the German manager.
“You’d like to think that with the new manager, you have a clean slate, and if you’re doing the bits, you’ll get rewarded,” said the player to BBC Radio Five Live.
“I’ve come into camp with higher optimism, a different frame of mind. I’ve just got to try and work really hard in training – put your best foot forward, and see where that takes you. That’s the aim.
“I’ve just got to try and train the best I can and hopefully leave a good impression. I’m really excited to see what’s ahead, I’m really excited for the new challenge and look forward to seeing what it holds. You’re always chomping at the bit for your own opportunity.
“Jordan’s taken the opportunity and done brilliantly well and ran with it for a long, long time. Credit to him. He’s done a fantastic job.
“But it’s no secret, all the goalkeepers will come to camp and want to play. That’s the level we’re all at. It’s all professional on the pitch. We are train well together, help each other.
“At the end of the day it comes down to what the manager wants and what the manager decides you go with and you support – you’ve got to support as number two or number three, you’ve got to be the best team you can be.”
PICTURE: ALAMY
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