England manager Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that extra security measures will be put in place around the team's World Cup training base in Kansas City to prevent any repeat of the 'Spygate' controversy. The FA is set to erect screens around the pitch, which is currently open and vulnerable to being overlooked.
The decision comes after Southampton were kicked out of the Championship play-offs for spying on Middlesbrough before their semi-final. Tuchel is keen to avoid any similar incidents during the tournament, where England will face Croatia, Panama, and Ghana this summer.
Tuchel said: 'We will take care of that, of course. As good as possible and not in a crazy way. It is what it is. I think we will have security there and we will build a bit of protection.' He added that set pieces and penalty preparations are crucial to keep private.
The manager also revealed that team psychologist Rich Hampson has been involved in assessing players to ensure they buy into the squad's 'brotherhood'. Hampson observes communication and behaviour within the group and compares it to other national teams.
Tuchel has also placed players on a secret standby list, with the ultimate test being whether they answer his phone call while on holiday and are ready to fly immediately. He noted that the reaction of players to disappointment played a factor in his selection decisions.
