Gibbs-White Credits Tuchel’s Support After Late England Call-Up Amid Stellar Forest Form

Nottingham Forest captain Morgan Gibbs-White has hailed England head coach Thomas Tuchel for his “incredible” man-management after an injury to Chelsea’s Cole Palmer paved the way for the midfielder’s late inclusion in the Three Lions’ squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia. 

 
The 25-year-old revealed initial disappointment upon being excluded from Tuchel’s original selection for England’s opening 2026 World Cup qualifiers, despite a standout season that has seen him contribute five goals and seven assists for third-placed Forest. “I was upset, a little disappointed,” Gibbs-White admitted to BBC Radio 5 Live. “But you always have to respect the quality of players England has.” 


Gibbs-White’s fortunes shifted when Palmer withdrew due to injury on Sunday, prompting Tuchel to personally reach out. “He phoned me and asked, ‘Are you still upset, or do you want to join us tomorrow?’” the midfielder recounted. “There was no hesitation. I was smiling ear-to-ear—I’m delighted to be here.” 


Currently in what he describes as the “best form of my career,” Gibbs-White has been instrumental in Forest’s surge up the Premier League table. His leadership as captain and consistent performances have galvanized a team that finished mid-table last season. “Walking out at the City Ground gives me goosebumps,” he said. “We’re making our fans proud.” 

 
Twelve months after a 10th-place finish, Forest’s ascent to third has defied expectations. Gibbs-White acknowledged the skepticism such a rise would have initially invited: “If someone had told us last year, we’d have thought it improbable.” He credited manager Nuno Espírito Santo’s meticulous pre-season preparations and personalized approach: “Nuno’s man-management and clarity of vision have been vital. The morale here is unmatched.” 

 
With England duty now ahead, Gibbs-White emphasized his readiness to contribute: “Joining the squad with this confidence is special. We’re all in a good place—hoping to keep delivering.” 

As Forest eye a potential European berth and England begin their World Cup campaign, Gibbs-White’s resilience and form underscore a season of personal and collective triumph.