Tuchel Questions Home Fan Atmosphere Despite Comfortable Win Over Wales.
Thomas Tuchel expressed his sadness that the Three Lions team did not enjoy more backing from the Wembley fans during their decisive friendly win against Wales on Thursday night.
The manager was pleased to see his squad maintain their strong performance, with strikes from Rogers, Ollie Watkins, and Saka inside the initial stages deciding the match. Yet, he was not content with the mood at the national stadium.
“With one and a half training days to get ready against a well-trained team and we excelled,” Tuchel remarked. “It could have been 5-0 up at half-time. We couldn’t score the fourth and fifth goals. It was quiet. We didn’t get support from the stands. We did everything to win.”
“How much more can you give in the first quarter? We didn’t let them escape. When you only hear just Wales fans for half an hour, it’s regrettable because the squad earned more support today.”
“I support my words. There’s nothing more than leading three goals up in a derby. I would have wished for a little more support in periods where it is challenging.”
“In the second half, to cheer us on, there was a bit too much support for Wales. It could have helped us to recharge, but it is what it is and that is it.”
Selection Choices Vindicated by Display
Apart from risking a fight with supporters, the manager also created controversy by omitting Bellingham and Foden from his squad. However the choice was justified by Morgan Rogers excelling in the No 10 position and netting his maiden goal for his country.
“He is what he is,” the head coach noted. “He is a No 10 and he is fighting for his position.”
Bellamy Seeks Improvement from Loss
Craig Bellamy expressed hope that his team, who host Belgium in a key qualifying match on Monday, take lessons from their poor first-half display.
“This is why I wanted this match,” the manager commented. “I need to see our standing. Where do we want to go? What is our identity? Today fills me with drive.”
Fitness Worry for Watkins
Ollie Watkins was taken off at half-time after colliding with a goalpost and may miss out when England face Latvia in the Latvian capital in a World Cup qualifying match on next week.
