Tuchel's Stern Warning to England Squad
England manager Thomas Tuchel has delivered a crucial team talk, cautioning his players against receiving red cards that could see them miss next summer's World Cup, taking direct inspiration from Cristiano Ronaldo's recent dismissal.
The Portugal superstar was sent off against Republic of Ireland, potentially ruling him out of at least one tournament match. With England already qualified after seven wins from seven matches, Tuchel emphasised that unnecessary risks simply aren't worth taking.
Managing Risk in Final Qualifier
Speaking ahead of England's final World Cup qualifier against Albania, Tuchel confirmed he addressed the squad about disciplinary precautions. "It is important, I'm aware of it and we will talk about it. No red cards please," stated the Three Lions boss.
He elaborated on specific scenarios, particularly concerning last-man challenges. "If we have a doubt then, because we are through and we are in a position with last man then the player holds the shirt he gets the red card. If there's a doubt then it would be smarter not to do it."
Tuchel carefully balanced his approach, wanting to make players aware without creating anxiety. "I don't want to make it too big a subject because then you have a cloud above you. But if you have the choice: don't do it."
Addressing Discipline Beyond the Pitch
Tuchel also revealed he has spoken with Tottenham defender Djed Spence about an incident where the full-back, alongside Micky van de Ven, ignored his club manager Thomas Frank when leaving the pitch three weeks earlier.
The England manager made his disapproval clear, stating "Yeah, I didn't like it," while emphasising that behavioural standards extend beyond national team duty. "Because the players know they are not only national players when they are the 10 days in camp, they are always national players and the standard of behaviour is always important."
Despite the incident, Tuchel did not consider dropping Spence from the squad but has clearly laid down expectations ahead of the Albania encounter.
Team News and Injury Update
On the injury front, Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa will miss the Albania game after suffering a calf injury, creating concern for his club side.
Tuchel provided context for Konsa's absence: "Ezri is not with us, he has a tight calf and got assessed in the afternoon and didn't take the risk so we didn't take him. Everyone else is ready to go. He has had a lot of matches for Aston Villa so was a candidate to have a rest."
England approach their final competitive match against Albania with a perfect qualifying record intact, having already secured their place at next summer's tournament with commanding performances throughout the campaign.
