The England manager Questions Wembley Fan Atmosphere Despite Comfortable Win Over Wales.
Thomas Tuchel voiced his sadness that the Three Lions team did not receive more encouragement from the home fans during their decisive triumph over Wales on Thursday evening.
The manager was satisfied to see his squad maintain their strong performance, with goals from Morgan Rogers, Watkins, and Saka inside the first 20 minutes settling the match. But, 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 performed excellently,” Tuchel stated. “We could have been 5-0 up at the break. We missed the additional ones. The stadium was silent. There was no support back from the crowd. Our team gave their all to win.”
“What more can you give in the first quarter? We didn’t let them get away. If you hear just Wales fans for 30 minutes, it’s regrettable because the team deserved more support today.”
“I support my words. We cannot do more than leading 3-0 in a rivalry match. I would have wished for a little more backing in periods where it is challenging.”
“In the second half, to get behind us, there was excessive backing for the opposition. It could have helped us to refocus, but it is what it is and so be it.”
Selection Choices Vindicated by Display
Away from risking a fight with supporters, Tuchel also created controversy by leaving out Bellingham and Foden from his team selection. However the move was justified by Morgan Rogers delivering another standout performance in the No 10 position and getting his first international goal.
“He is what he is,” the head coach said. “He is a No 10 and he is competing for his place.”
Bellamy Hopes for Improvement from Defeat
Craig Bellamy expressed hope that Wales, who face a strong Belgian side in a important qualifying match on Monday, take lessons from their awful first-half display.
“That’s the reason I scheduled this game,” Bellamy commented. “I need to see our standing. Where do we want to go? Who do we want to be? This performance gives me motivation.”
Fitness Worry for Striker
Ollie Watkins was taken off at half-time after colliding with a post and will be a doubt when England play their next opponents in the Latvian capital in a World Cup qualifying match on next week.