‘Nobody wants to play’ – Thomas Tuchel defends England’s semi-final ‘achievement’ as coach slams World Cup third-place play-off against France

While he may dislike the fixture, Tuchel acknowledges that the clash in Miami serves as the first step in the healing process for a squad that was very close to history. Facing a France side that also suffered semi-final heartbreak, the England boss wants to see a reaction that proves his team’s competitive spirit remains intact before they head home.

“The important thing for us is to bounce back and react,” Tuchel added. “That’s what you have to do at the highest level of sport and that’s what we’ll do.” Despite his personal grievances with the play-off, a victory against Les Bleus would secure England’s best World Cup finish on foreign soil, providing a small silver lining to a painful exit.