STRIKE UP THE BOND

Team togetherness is Tuchel’s big idea for success... but the pressure is on after Bellingham and Foden were left out

- BY JOHN CROSS

THOMAS TUCHEL has already spelt out his vision as England manager.

“For credibility, as a coach, you need to walk the talk,” said Tuchel when he named his squad for the friendly against Wales and the World Cup qualifier in Latvia.

Tuchel has made his position clear - this is his England team, he will pick who he wants and no one can persuade him otherwise.

There was no room for Jude Bellingham in this squad. Phil Foden was also left out. Jack Grealish faces a long battle to get in. Instead, Tuchel has insisted he will stick with the players who won 5-0 in Serbia because they have earned their place - and deserve to keep it.

That was the message Tuchel delivered to the players in the dressing room and to go back on his word would be hypocritical.

It is, as Tuchel said, about walking the talk. Being good to your word.

And that is what we expect to see at Wembley tonight and in Riga next Tuesday.

Tuchel’s new-look England, which is all about the team rather than individuals.