England stars accept team-first mantra: Tuchel after seventh straight win in World Cup qualifiers

Thomas Tuchel insisted the England stars have adopted his team-building ethos after Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden were only substitutes in Thursday’s 2-0 win against Serbia.

Tuchel introduced Real Madrid midfielder Bellingham and Manchester City striker Foden in the second half at Wembley, while staying true to the players who had impressed in England’s previous three matches.

The Three Lions sealed their place at next year’s World Cup in October with an impressive win in Latvia after a 5-0 defeat to Serbia in September.

Bellingham has not played for England since June, while Foden missed the previous three international matches.

In a sharp message that places should be earned by performance rather than reputation, Tuchel kept Bellingham and Foden waiting before sending them through after 64 minutes against Serbia.

The pair combined for Eberechi Eze’s goal in the 90th minute after Bukayo Saka put England ahead in the first half.

Tuchel is confident he has created a strong sense of purpose and unity among his squad since taking office in January. And the German believes togetherness will ensure there are no issues with players pouting if they are not in the starting line-up at the World Cup.

«It’s not about building a starting XI. It’s about building a team. They are all big players at their clubs; they are all disappointed when they don’t play. This is normal,» he said.

«But they believe in the idea of ​​building a team. This is what we want and what we need. There is no other way around it.»

“Only a strong group that can leave their ego behind, leave the disappointment behind and contribute to giving the coach a headache for the next match.”

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Bellingham has faced reports that he is a polarizing figure within the England squad, but Tuchel is well aware of his fiery midfielder’s qualities and there is no chance of him being dropped from the squad.

Whether Bellingham can break into the team in time for the World Cup is another matter.

But Tuchel, buoyed by seven consecutive World Cup qualifying victories without conceding a single goal, is confident the England team leaders will set the right tone at the tournament.

«We have a strong culture with a core of leaders in the team. The atmosphere in the team has the right energy,» he said.

«Everyone is desperate to play. It’s a good sign. Camp by camp we’re building a culture and the players are setting the standards. If we make sure we’re going in the right direction, maybe something special can be built.»

Published on November 14, 2025