Thomas Tuchel has been unveiled as England’s next permanent head coach and was immediately questioned about his allegiances by the media.
Former Chelsea boss Tuchel was confirmed as Gareth Southgate’s permanent successor at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon.
The German becomes the third foreign manager to coach England after Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.
His appointment has proved to be controversial, with some questioning why an English manager was not given the role.
Ex-England star Gary Neville said: “I do think we are damaging ourselves accepting Thomas Tuchel is better, he is better than any of the other English coaches. But with the English coaches that have managed in the upper echelons of the league with Eddie Howe at Newcastle and Graham Potter. I do think there are outstanding coaches that could have been appointed that were English.”
At his unveiling, Tuchel was asked about his suitability and whether he would sing ‘God Save The King’ in his first England match.
To which he replied: “I understood from Mark Bullingham that it is a personal decision. I have not made my decision. The English anthem is very moving, I experienced it here in England in FA Cup finals.
“I will always show my respects to the country and a very moving anthem. As this is a news object, I will take a bit of time over this decision.”
England fans were quick to react to Tuchel’s answer, with many choosing to defend the former Chelsea manager.
“Typical that one of the journos asked Tuchel if he’ll sing the national anthem,” posted one unhappy fan on X.
Another added: “Thomas Tuchel’s answer to the inevitable national anthem question was spot on and respectful.”
While a third wrote: “Why would you ask if Tuchel will sing the national anthem? Who honestly gives a f***, it’s not his country – not even all the team sing it.”
Someone else wrote: “Why the hell should he sing the English national anthem – he’s German! I would rather they concentrated on football related matters and not this nonsense.”
Featured Image Credit: YouTube/England
Topics: Chelsea, England, FA Cup, Football, Gareth Southgate, Thomas Tuchel, Fan Reactions