TUCHEL EXPLAINS WHY BELLINGHAM NEEDS ‘A BIT OF RAGE’ FOR ENGLAND

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By: Fasasi Hammad

England manager Thomas Tuchel believes Jude Bellingham performs at his best when he plays with “a bit of rage” as the midfielder prepares to face the Czech Republic in the Nations League.

According to Sky Sports, Tuchel believes Bellingham’s passionate and fiery approach can bring out the best in the Real Madrid midfielder, who impressed despite England’s 3-2 defeat to Spain at Wembley in their Nations League opener.

Bellingham was involved in several heated moments during the match, including an exchange with Real Madrid teammate Marc Cucurella. However, Tuchel believes such situations can give the 23-year-old an additional edge.

“He likes that. He gets better if that happens,” Tuchel said.

“It’s better if he plays with a bit of rage. It’s what he does. I think sometimes he is looking for these moments to get his fire going.”

Speaking about Bellingham’s exchange with Cucurella, Tuchel said the midfielder temporarily puts friendships aside when representing England.

“I think he doesn’t know any teammates when he is in the national team,” Tuchel said.

“He wants to win. He doesn’t know any teammates. He is still friends with them but not for the 90 minutes.”

Bellingham played a key role as England pushed Spain until the closing stages and came close to finding an equaliser when his late effort forced a save from goalkeeper Unai Simon.

The midfielder had also been named England’s Player of the Year for the second consecutive season before the international break.

Tuchel is keen to have Bellingham available when England take on the Czech Republic in Prague on Tuesday, although he admitted the team’s demanding schedule could affect his selection.

England are scheduled to play four Nations League matches in 11 days, raising concerns over player workload and the need for rotation.

“I would love to have him four times on the pitch,” Tuchel said.

“I think the concern is that he hasn’t done it this season in this tight period. We will need to check with the physios. We will not put Jude at risk. But in terms of style, it’s just how he plays.”

Tuchel added that his preference would be to maintain a settled starting XI during the international window but acknowledged that changes could become necessary because of the tight schedule.

“My ideal scenario would be to go again and go again and go again, with six or seven players minimum that start again that we trust,” he said.

“To put the responsibility on them and let them feel the trust. But I am not sure it’s possible. Let’s see.”

England will face the Czech Republic in Prague on Tuesday, with kick-off scheduled for 7:45pm.