Thomas Tuchel Questions Wembley Fan Atmosphere Despite Dominant Win Over Wales.
Thomas Tuchel voiced his disappointment that the England team did not enjoy stronger backing from the home spectators during their commanding friendly win against Wales on Thursday evening.
Tuchel was pleased to see his squad showcase their winning momentum, with goals from Morgan Rogers, Watkins, and Bukayo Saka inside the opening quarter settling the game. Yet, he was not content with the mood at the iconic venue.
“With one and a half training days to prepare against a drilled team and we excelled,” Tuchel commented. “We could have been five goals ahead at half-time. We missed the additional goals. The stadium was silent. We didn’t get support from the stands. Our team gave their all to win.”
“How much more can you provide in 20 minutes? We didn’t let them get away. When you only hear just the Welsh supporters for 30 minutes, it’s sad because the team earned more support today.”
“I support my words. We cannot do more than being three goals up in a derby. I would have wished for a little more support in phases where it becomes tough.”
“In the second half, to cheer us on, there was a bit too much support for Wales. It could have helped us to regain energy, but that’s the way it went and so be it.”
Selection Choices Justified by Display
Apart from potentially starting a fight with fans, Tuchel also created controversy by excluding Bellingham and Foden from his team selection. But the move was backed up by Morgan Rogers delivering another standout performance in the No 10 position and netting his first international goal.
“He is what he is,” Tuchel said. “He is a No 10 and he is vying for his position.”
Bellamy Seeks Lessons from Defeat
Craig Bellamy expressed hope that his team, who face a strong Belgian side in a important qualifying match on next week, learn from their awful performance in the opening period.
“That’s the reason I scheduled this friendly,” Bellamy commented. “I need to see our current level. What are our ambitions? What is our identity? This performance gives me inspiration.”
Fitness Worry for Striker
Watkins was taken off at the break after hitting a post and may miss out when the national team face Latvia in the Latvian capital in a World Cup qualifying match on Tuesday.
