Thomas Tuchel has given his England players a day and a half off with few restrictions at the end of their pre-World Cup training camp in Florida, saying he trusts them not to abuse the privilege. The squad were told they could do whatever they wanted as long as it did not involve air travel, before they fly to Kansas City on Saturday for the tournament.
Tuchel oversaw a training game against amateur side Miami United on Thursday before allowing the players to rest until Saturday. The relaxed approach has characterised the camp, with players able to go out in the evenings without being bothered. England beat New Zealand 1-0 and Costa Rica 3-0 in warm-up matches.
“The players are getting one and a half days off to relax and switch off, not only physically but mentally,” Tuchel said. “They can almost do what they want. No flights. They are adults. They are determined, so the trust is not only a one-way street. I have full belief they will not gamble on that.”
Tuchel also revealed that Jude Bellingham could be used as a striker during the World Cup, after he played him briefly in that role against Costa Rica. Bellingham's run and pass led to a penalty scored by Anthony Gordon. “Jude can play as the No 9 almost in a free role,” Tuchel said. “It is an option.”
