Thomas Tuchel Urges Pride in Playing for England as World Cup Build-up Continues

Thomas Tuchel has stressed how important it is for players to value wearing the England shirt, calling that feeling “precious” and “the absolute key” as the team prepares for the World Cup.

England, who reached the European Championship final in two straight tournaments, have already secured qualification for next year’s World Cup with two matches still to play. Yet Tuchel expects full effort in Thursday’s home match with Serbia and the trip to Albania that follows.

This campaign comes a year after captain Harry Kane raised concerns about commitment after several players withdrew from the squad. Tuchel has since worked to rebuild a strong team spirit that mirrors the togetherness seen under former manager Gareth Southgate.

“What we are trying is to build is a strong bond, to build an energy, to build a group, to build a team, to build a brotherhood that everyone wants to join,” he said.

Tuchel also spoke about creating healthy competition within the squad, where places are won and lost by effort and performance. He warned that players who do not give their best may lose their spot, while others will be ready to step in.

“Not even as a threat, but the other way around – that everyone is keen to come, that everyone loves to come to camp, loves to perform for the country because it is an honour and this is the last step of elite football to represent a country like England in a World Cup qualifying game or in a World Cup itself.

“It’s the pinnacle. This is how it should feel, so I think we are absolutely on the (right) way. Everyone wanted to be part of the camps, everyone is desperate to come.

“No-one is giving us any signals that this may be a good time to rest because we have already qualified and we will also not accept it, so it’s an energy that feeds itself. This is at the moment where we are.”

When asked how vital that feeling is, Tuchel replied: “Very precious. It’s the key. It’s the absolute key for me, before tactics, before personnel and whatever.

“That is the key, everyone loves to be in camp, loves to play for England and enjoys it.”

Tuchel confirmed Anthony Gordon and Nick Pope have withdrawn through enforced reasons, and Marc Guehi will miss the Serbia match with a foot problem. Jude Bellingham could return to action after missing recent games; this is the first time Tuchel and Bellingham have worked together since the manager apologised over a comment about the player’s on-field behaviour.

Tuchel welcomed Bellingham back to the group and praised the mood in training, saying the camp has a competitive spirit and a light atmosphere. He added that the attitude and energy in sessions are where he wants them to be.