Thomas Tuchel has heaped praise on Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall after the 22-year-old impressed for England during the recent international break.
The Magpies full-back was recalled to the England set-up having been left out by Tuchel for the World Cup campaign in the United States, Canada and Mexico, despite a strong season.
It was not just those of a black and white contingent who felt the decision to leave Hall at home was a big mistake, with England coming up short in the semi-finals against Argentina.
Hall's impact for the Three Lions
Tuchel's squad was lacking an out-and-out left-back throughout the tournament, and Hall has shown in two wins over Czechia and in the thrashing of Croatia that he can bring an awful lot to the Three Lions.
The 22-year-old linked up really well with former Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon against both Czechia and Croatia.
Speaking on ITV, Ian Wright said to the England manager: "As good as Nico O'Reilly has done, and he's been fantastic, with Hall and Gordon playing 87 games together at Newcastle, is that another connection you're happy with?"
Tuchel's verdict on Hall
Tuchel said: "I am very happy with Lewis Hall, he made a big impression and he opened up the competition."
It is clear that Hall is now very much part of Tuchel's plans despite his summer omission, and the former Chelsea boss is a big believer in forming a tight-knit group.
Speaking at his press conference ahead of the clash with Czechia, the German said: "Lewis Hall started first time for us [since 2024], before I forget him and had performances like it seems like, seamlessly they fit in.
"And this is the work that the team does off the pitch, and they took care of that, and they make him feel comfortable.
"That's sometimes overseen in all this performance-driven environment."
