Thomas Tuchel has warned England's players that there could be rotation for their final World Cup group match against Panama, following a disappointing 0-0 draw with Ghana. The England manager urged fans to remain calm despite the setback, insisting that no other side faced as tough a second fixture as England did against the African nation, ranked 64th in the world.
Tuchel Defends England's Performance Against Ghana
Speaking after the match in Kansas City, Tuchel said: "I saw some second round matches from big nations and I'm sorry but with respect there was not the level of Ghana on the other side of the pitch. We were facing a very physical team and Ghana were good. We created half chances, we created deliveries and set plays but couldn't score from it to change the characteristic of the game. I know it's not an easy watch, I know."
Tuchel reshuffled his defensive lineup, bringing in Marc Guehi to partner Ezri Konsa. He praised the duo alongside Elliot Anderson for their performances. "I liked both central defenders. It was a difficult match. We allowed two counter attacks, and only two counter attacks, and they were straightway dangers. So, the credit goes to the team, and to the structure, and to the discipline that we didn't allow more."
Rotation Plans for Panama Clash
Tuchel admitted he had hoped to rest players against Panama if England had secured top spot with a win over Ghana. Instead, the draw means England must now produce a response similar to their 5-0 thrashing of Serbia after a laboured 2-0 win over Andorra. Tuchel confirmed changes will be made but not a full rotation: "I was not even sure if do the full rotation. Maybe we would have. But I am not shy to do some rotation now. Some players should be on the pitch but maybe it will be more moderate."
England face Panama in New Jersey on Saturday, needing a win to secure progression to the knockout stages. Tuchel added: "It's not always fair if you just rotate your players in and say 'okay lets perform'. Lets see. I like for example the centre backs. They were good together. I like Elliot Anderson, he had a step forward and a good performance, maybe a bit better than against Croatia."
