World Cup 2026: Thomas Tuchel not afraid to shout at England players, says Olly Watkins

Ollie Watkins says Thomas Tuchel is “not afraid” to shout at England players as the manager aims to maintain training standards at the World Cup.

The Aston Villa striker was speaking at England’s training center in Kansas City and was asked about Tuchel’s coaching style and how the German motivates his players.

“I think he’s not afraid to yell at you. He’s always demanding of you and making sure you’re on it every day,” Watkins said.

Tottenham Hotspur defender DZ Spence was shot screaming during training as the England team continued their preparations for their second game of the tournament against Ghana on Tuesday (21:00 BST).

“It was lucky it wasn’t me. I think I made a mistake right before DZ but luckily he shouted DZ out,” Watkins said.

“I think it just shows that he’s a winner and he’s always driving value, making sure we’re in it.

“That’s what you need if you aim to win the World Cup. (Tuchel) is very demanding, but when he’s around the base camp he’s very relaxed and chilled.”

Tuchel won the Champions League as Chelsea boss in 2021 and won league titles with Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.

Spence was called up to the 26-man squad despite Tottenham Hotspur’s relegation battle.

The 25-year-old is loved by Tuchel for his versatility and later on Tino Livramento withdraws through injurySpence is probably the first choice cover at both left-back and right-back.