🔗 Share this article

Thomas Tuchel voiced his disappointment that the England team did not receive more support from the home fans during their commanding friendly win against Wales on Thursday night.

The manager was satisfied to see his squad maintain their strong performance, with goals from Rogers, Ollie Watkins, and Bukayo Saka inside the first 20 minutes settling the match. Yet, he was displeased with the mood at the iconic venue.

“With one and a half training days to prepare against a well-trained team and we did very well,” the coach commented. “We could have been 5-0 up at the break. We missed the fourth and fifth ones. It was quiet. We didn’t get support back from the crowd. Our team gave their all to win.”

“What more can you provide in the first quarter? We prevented them escape. If you hear just Wales fans for 30 minutes, it’s disappointing because the team earned better encouragement today.”

“I maintain this statement. There’s nothing more than leading 3-0 in a rivalry match. I would have wished for a bit more backing in moments where it is challenging.”

“In the second half, to support us, there was a bit too much backing for the opposition. It might have aided us to regain energy, but that’s football and that is it.”

Squad Decisions Vindicated by Display

Apart from potentially starting a dispute among fans, Tuchel also raised eyebrows by omitting Bellingham and Phil Foden from his squad. But the decision was backed up by Rogers excelling in the attacking midfield role and scoring his maiden goal for his country.

“He is what he is,” Tuchel explained. “He operates as an attacking midfielder and he is competing for his position.”

Bellamy Hopes for Lessons from Defeat

Craig Bellamy expressed hope that Wales, who face Belgium in a crucial World Cup qualifier on next week, improve after their awful performance in the opening period.

“This is why I scheduled this match,” Bellamy commented. “I wanted to assess our current level. Where do we want to go? Who do we want to be? This performance fills me with inspiration.”

Injury Concern for Striker

Ollie Watkins was taken off at the break after colliding with a post and may miss out when England play their next opponents in Riga in a World Cup qualifying match on next week.