'Afraid of nothing' Tuchel certain England are ready for Belgrade bearpit

Thomas Tuchel has said England's youngsters will have no fear against Serbia and he has backed his team to make a statement in their daunting World Cup qualifier in Belgrade.

- Jacob Steinberg

Sitting in a small room overlooking the pitch at the imposing Rajko Mitic Stadium, there was a sense of Tuchel geeing himself up as he looked outside and took in his surroundings before previewing the clash tonight between the two strongest sides in Group K. England's head coach is under pressure to produce a standout performance despite starting qualifying with four wins from four. The football has been uninspired at times - England underwhelmed in attack during their 2-0 win against Andorra at Villa Park last Saturday - but Tuchel believes facing Serbia in a ferocious atmosphere can ignite his reign.

"It is always the opportunity and I'll always see it like this," the German said. "This game is the opportunity and I think it will bring out the best in us that we are here in Belgrade."

Harry Kane, the England captain, and Tuchel both mentioned the intimidating nature of the tunnel, which is the longest in Europe at 240 metres. "The tunnel is not so agreeable," Tuchel said.