World Cup
Tuchel shouts at Djed Spence during England prep for Ghana
England manager Thomas Tuchel was captured shouting “wake up” at Tottenham defender Djed Spence during a training session in Kansas City as the Three Lions prepared for their second World Cup group match against Ghana on Tuesday at 21:00 BST.
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins said Tuchel is not afraid to shout and is always demanding, adding that the manager makes sure players stay on it every day.
Spence was included in the 26‑man England squad despite Tottenham’s battle against relegation and is valued by Tuchel for his versatility.
Spence told BBC Radio 5 Live that he missed a zone in the drill, prompting Tuchel to tell him to “wake up”, and described the manager as an elite figure who demands the highest quality from his players.
He later appeared for the final ten minutes of England’s 4‑2 victory over Croatia, having a chance to score as the Three Lions secured a winning start.
Spence said he has a good relationship with Tuchel, noting that the manager talks to him before and after training, reminding him of his minutes and the qualities he possesses.
England camp reporter Kelly Somers and senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel provided the latest updates from the Three Lions’ base in Kansas City.