The reported squad also includes Hall’s Newcastle team-mate Tino Livramento and Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly among the players who can operate on the left. That gives Tuchel different tactical options, but it also makes Hall’s absence more striking.
Lineker said he would have taken the 21-year-old, adding: “It is fair to say at this point we would all pick different squads, it is one person's opinion and that is what counts. But there are certain players in there that I think have been hard done by, Lewis Hall for me.”
The comment captures the tension facing every England manager: selecting the most natural specialist or choosing players who offer greater flexibility across the back line.
Lineker also questioned whether Hall’s defensive work had been properly weighed against Spence’s speed.
“He talks about Djed Spence because he is the quickest and he can play on that side as well and chase back,” Lineker said. “Did he see Lewis Hall against Yamal? He did not give him a kick. He's been really unlucky.”
That is the heart of the debate. Hall’s case rests on his composure, defensive timing and recent progress, while Tuchel’s reported preference appears to favour recovery pace and positional adaptability.
England’s World Cup opener will now provide the first answer. If the left side becomes a problem, Hall’s omission will be revisited; if Tuchel’s balance works, the decision may quickly look justified.