Tuchel Criticizes Home Crowd Support Following Dominant Wales Victory.
The England head coach expressed his disappointment that the Three Lions team did not get stronger support from the Wembley spectators during their commanding friendly win against Wales on Thursday evening.
Tuchel was happy to see his side showcase their strong performance, with goals from Morgan Rogers, Ollie Watkins, and Bukayo Saka inside the opening quarter effectively ending the game. Yet, he was unhappy with the energy at the iconic venue.
“With limited sessions to get ready against a organized team and we did very well,” Tuchel commented. “It could have been 5-0 up at half-time. We couldn’t score the fourth and fifth goals. There was little noise. There was no support from the crowd. We did everything to win.”
“How much more can you deliver in the first quarter? We didn’t let them escape. If you hear just the Welsh supporters for half an hour, it’s sad because the squad deserved better encouragement today.”
“I stand by my words. We cannot do more than leading 3-0 in a derby. I hoped for a little more backing in phases where it is challenging.”
“After halftime, to cheer us on, there was excessive support for Wales. It might have aided us to regain energy, but that’s football and so be it.”
Squad Decisions Justified by Display
Away from risking a fight with fans, the manager also raised eyebrows by omitting Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden from his team selection. But the choice was justified by Morgan Rogers impressing again in the No 10 position and getting his maiden goal for his country.
“He plays his game,” the head coach noted. “He is a No 10 and he is fighting for his place.”
Bellamy Seeks Lessons from Loss
The Wales manager hopes that Wales, who face a strong Belgian side in a key World Cup qualifier on Monday, take lessons from their poor first-half display.
“This is why I scheduled this friendly,” Bellamy commented. “I wanted to assess where we are. Where do we want to go? Who do we want to be? Today gives me motivation.”
Injury Concern for Striker
Watkins was substituted at half-time after hitting a post and will be a doubt when the national team play Latvia in the Latvian capital in a World Cup qualifying match on Tuesday.