Boy Next Door
England coach Thomas Tuchel has clarified his comments on Marcus Rashford following criticism of the Aston Villa forward after Friday’s 2-0 World Cup qualifier win over Albania.
Tuchel had initially expressed a desire for more from Rashford and Manchester City’s Phil Foden, but ahead of Tuesday’s qualifier against Latvia, he explained his remarks and praised their off-the-ball contributions.
“I’ve spoken to both of them in front of the group,” Tuchel said. “They know I appreciate the effort, especially off the ball. We can see in the numbers how much effort they put into defending high and into the counter-press, also in their sprinting numbers.
“Marcus made a lot of runs when we had the ball that we didn’t see or use. He was maybe unlucky with the timing. Phil is maybe not finding the momentum that he can have.”
Despite his earlier comments, Tuchel insists he remains confident in Rashford’s ability to make an impact. “Both of them are very positive and have every right to be. They know exactly what we want from them. Ideally, we will bring them into more 1v1 situations, and they have to have the confidence to take them on.”
Tuchel further emphasized Rashford’s influence on the game, highlighting his creativity in key moments. “Marcus created one big chance for Jude Bellingham. Off the ball, the effort was there, and that’s what counts.”
As England prepares for their next match, Rashford will be looking to prove his value and cement his place in Tuchel’s plans.
Qudus Salihu
admin
ZHAKE