England manager wants his team to play with the intensity and aggression of the Premier League
There is concern over England’s record against elite opposition at tournaments, and for good reason, but coach Thomas Tuchel has backed the team to raise their level when their World Cup campaign begins against Croatia on Wednesday.
England arrive at the tournament having progressed comfortably against weak sides in the qualifiers, but results against stronger opponents under Tuchel have been mixed.
They have yet to beat a top-20 nation during the German’s tenure, drawing with Uruguay and losing to Japan and Senegal. However, Tuchel believes the team’s mentality will be different when Group L gets under way in Dallas.
“Because it’s not a friendly match, we will not try stuff,” Tuchel said. “We will rely on us and the occasion and the tension will bring out the best in us.”
The England manager said he wants his team to play with the intensity and aggression of the Premier League, arguing that it is their greatest strength. Twenty out of England’s 26 players ply their trade in the English top-flight.
“We should play brave and play to the strengths of the players,” Tuchel said. “I feel clearly that the players want it and that they are successful in club football like this.”
England’s preparations have included a two-week training camp in Florida before relocating to their tournament base in Kansas City. The squad are using the period to adapt to summer conditions in the US.
Tuchel said there had been no need for motivational speeches before the opening fixture because his players fully understood the significance of starting a World Cup campaign.
“They know,” Tuchel said. “I don’t feel any emotional fuel is needed to make everyone clear what is happening. We know.”
Croatia present a difficult opening test despite an ageing squad, with the eastern European side notorious for grit, defensive strength and midfield battles.
“It is a very difficult start,” Tuchel said. “It is an experienced team, an experienced coach, in tournament knockout football. It’s a top football nation and a very strong opponent.”
