England coach Thomas Tuchel is pushing his squad to play with the same joy they show in training, ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against Senegal.
Critical of Saturday’s labored 1-0 win over Andorra, Tuchel wants the Three Lions to “just go for it” and play with freedom.
“I see us train with a smile, but not play with a smile,” Tuchel admitted, noting the team feels “too isolated on the pitch.”
He believes clear instructions and a focus on core principles will help players “forget about the shirt and how heavy it is.”
The friendly also highlights the packed football calendar.
Nine England players are set for the Club World Cup in the US, a tournament Tuchel feels gives Liverpool and Arsenal a “huge advantage next season” by not participating.
While not overly worried about the Club World Cup’s impact, he stressed the lack of proper rest for players amidst relentless schedules.
