Thomas Tuchel has praised Jude Bellingham after the England midfielder produced another fine display in the 3-2 defeat against Spain at Wembley. The England boss says the 23-year-old has become the team's Duracell bunny, staying strong and playing at his best level for the whole 90 minutes.
Bellingham has been in brilliant form for England, and Tuchel says the Real Madrid superstar has found a new level. The Three Lions midfielder enjoyed a sensational World Cup, where he helped lead England to a third placed finish in the United States.
Consistent over 90 minutes
Tuchel highlighted Bellingham's consistency against Spain, noting he was always involved throughout the match. The England manager said: "I liked his performance a lot the other day because it was very consistent throughout the 90-plus minutes. He was always involved."
Tuchel explained that Bellingham has previously needed time to recharge after high-intensity moments, but now he maintains his level throughout. He added: "Jude can play in these high intensive patterns and then needs time to recharge the batteries and maybe goes again and has these moments and minutes when he plays at the highest intensity and then he needs to recharge.
"Now, he played at a highest level but was always involved. He had played economically and was always a difference maker, always available."
New role suits Bellingham
Tuchel also noted that Bellingham has taken on a slightly different position that allows him to overload both sides of the pitch. He said: "A little bit of a new position for him where he can overload both sides and that suits him very well but it was a very mature, very very good performance."
Bellingham has silenced his doubters and is now England's key man alongside Harry Kane as they look to bounce back from the Spain defeat against the Czech Republic. Tuchel highlighted Bellingham's dedication to the squad, saying: "He looks like a real member of the squad on and off the pitch. That is the key in itself that players want to come and want to really play and don't only say it but prove the point.
"We provide an environment and atmosphere where they can actually feel free and express themselves and be the best visions of themselves. It is a give and go. We need to provide that and the player needs to have the hunger and the excitement to show up."
