EFL Stars Abound at World Cup with Over 30 Players Selected

The English Football League is set to send over 30 players to the World Cup in North America this summer, exceeding the representation from the 2022 tournament in Qatar. Clubs across the Championship, League One, and League Two have contributed to this growing presence, with even fourth-division sides having to postpone fixtures due to international call-ups.

Notable EFL Players at the World Cup

• Ben Waine (Port Vale, League Two) – New Zealand, scored three goals this season for relegated Port Vale.
• Matthew Garbett (Peterborough United, League One) – New Zealand, first Peterborough player to feature at a World Cup.
• Tahith Chong (Sheffield United, Championship) – Curacao, former Manchester United academy product with one assist in 21 appearances.
• Ar'Jany Martha (Rotherham United, League Two) – Curacao, first Rotherham player at a World Cup, played 41 times last season.
• Edo Kayembe (Watford, Championship) – DR Congo, 40 international caps, recently signed a contract extension.
• Axel Tuanzebe (Burnley, Championship) – DR Congo, Burnley were relegated to the Championship.

New Zealand's squad includes six EFL players, among them Braintree Town defender Tommy Smith, who will become the first New Zealander to play at two men's World Cups after his 2010 appearance. Smith's side was relegated from the National League this season.