Thomas Tuchel voiced his confidence in England’s young squad ahead of their World Cup qualifier against Serbia in Belgrade. He acknowledged the intimidating atmosphere of the Rajko Mitic Stadium but believes it will bring out the best in his players. With several key players missing, Tuchel is looking to his young stars to step up and make a statement, emphasizing the importance of leadership from experienced players like Jordan Henderson. He also addressed the potential for racist abuse and urged fans to behave responsibly.
Thomas Tuchel exuded confidence as he addressed the media in Belgrade, asserting that England's youthful squad is fully prepared to face Serbia's intimidating atmosphere in their crucial World Cup qualifier. "They are Afraid of nothing," Tuchel stated, dismissing any concerns about the daunting environment at the Rajko Mitic Stadium.
Overlooking the pitch, Tuchel acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge ahead, recognizing the match as a pivotal clash between Group K's top contenders. Despite the pressure, he expressed optimism about his team's ability to rise to the occasion. "I think this game will bring out the best in us that we are here in Belgrade," he affirmed, emphasizing the opportunity for his players to make a statement.
Both Tuchel and Harry Kane highlighted the infamous tunnel at the Rajko Mitic Stadium, the longest in Europe at 240 metres, as a potential psychological hurdle. Tuchel acknowledged its intimidating nature but framed it as an integral part of the experience. "The tunnel is not so agreeable," Tuchel said. “But that’s what it’s all about now. It’s nice, you’re in this country, this sporting nation, full of emotional people, full of quality in every sport – especially in sports that have a ball.
“They are so talented and determined. That’s the beauty of it and if you want to go to a World Cup and to play for the national team, experiencing this is the beauty. Tomorrow is one of these nights. And we’re up for it.”
England enter the match leading their group by five points, albeit with several key players sidelined due to injury. The absence of experienced figures presents an opportunity for emerging talents like Elliot Anderson, who impressed in his debut against Andorra, to step up. Other young players such as Morgan Rogers, Tino Livramento, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Myles Lewis-Skelly are also in contention, eager to prove their mettle on the international stage.
Tuchel confirmed that Marc Guéhi has recovered from a groin issue that forced him off against Andorra, bolstering England's defensive options. He stressed that age would not be a deciding factor in his team selection, emphasizing the squad's overall quality and readiness to compete. "Afraid of nothing," Tuchel said. "The group was excellent throughout the week and everyone deserves to play. It is good, we have some difficult choices and some narrow decisions to make. We will have a strong bench and age is not decisive.”
The coach also emphasized the importance of leadership, particularly from veteran players like Jordan Henderson, even if he doesn't start the game. "Jordan has played here, Harry [Kane] has played here and they have talked already about it," he said. "The spectators will be emotional, they will be loud.”
Looking ahead to the match, Tuchel anticipated a defensively resolute Serbia, likely deploying a five-man backline. He has been working on creative solutions to unlock their defence, recognizing the need for his team to be inventive in the absence of key attacking players such as Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, and Bukayo Saka. "When the chance comes you have to take it or other guys will come and take your place,” Tuchel said. “That is the nature of elite sport. I think it has been an excellent camp with an excellent group. They are all very confident and eager to play.”
Off the pitch, England's players have addressed the potential for racist abuse from the crowd. The Rajko Mitic Stadium has already faced sanctions, with its capacity reduced by 15% following fan behavior during Serbia's match against Andorra in June.
Branko Radujko, the general secretary of the Football Association of Serbia, appealed to spectators to refrain from any misconduct in tonight’s game. “In addition to the spectacle we expect on the pitch, let me draw attention to something just as important: behaviour of all of us in the stands,” he said. “This match of truth also carries great responsibility.
“We are still under special monitoring of Uefa. Every inappropriate reaction, insult or incident could cost us dearly on our path to the USA, Mexico and Canada, including the possibility of having to play a decisive match with Albania behind closed doors.
“That is the reason I sincerely and seriously call on you: let us cheer from the heart but let it be fair. We can be loud but dignified. Let our support be a source of strength, not a risk for the national team.”