Tuchel puts Bellingham issue to bed as he backs ‘world-class’ Real Madrid midfielder ahead of semi-final showdown vs Argentina | OneFootball

Thomas Tuchel has moved to end any speculation over a rift with Jude Bellingham, insisting there is no problem between the pair ahead of England’s huge World Cup semi-final clash with Argentina.

The England manager held a clear-the-air meeting with his entire squad after comments made following the quarter-final victory over Norway sparked debate.

Bellingham appeared to dismiss Tuchel’s criticism of the team’s performance.

He responded with a brief ‘whatever’ when questioned about Tuchel describing aspects of England’s display as ‘sloppy’.

However, the midfielder’s manager believes the reaction was simply a result of the context surrounding the question.

Tuchel was keen to ensure the issue did not become a distraction before Wednesday’s semi-final in Atlanta and explained that the matter had already been addressed internally.

“No problem,” Tuchel said (via the Telegraph). “I spoke to the whole team. We debriefed.

“I spoke to the whole team after in the dressing room, which was basically the same message. And I explained it again yesterday evening to just move forward.

“Straight away in the talk we put on a new direction, put on a new head, which is the semi-final and Argentina.”

The German tactician was also quick to praise Bellingham.

He described the Real Madrid midfielder as a ‘world-class player’ after he scored twice in England’s dramatic win over Norway.

Tuchel believes they share the same mentality and suggests Bellingham’s response stemmed from the same competitive drive that drives both of them.

The former Chelsea boss admitted Bellingham’s reaction was understandable after a physically demanding 120-minute battle against the Scandinavians.

Tuchel also joked about his own playing career, admitting it was mediocre at best before explaining that he has immense respect for players who reach football’s highest levels.

“You don’t have to be a horse to be a good jockey,” he said.

With the Bellingham situation now firmly behind them, Tuchel’s full focus has turned towards Argentina.

England prepare for one of the biggest matches in their history as they look to reach another World Cup final.

The winner will face Spain after they dumped out France in the semi-final.