Tuchel looking for focus in Croatia

Thomas Tuchel says England must ensure they do not let their idyllic surroundings distract them as they prepare for Saturday's UEFA Nations League meeting with Croatia.

The Three Lions have enjoyed a positive build-up to the game, with three days since their victory over Czechia allowing the squad to travel to Rijeka on Adriatic Coast to recover and prepare carefully for another demanding test.

And Tuchel was pleased with the condition of his players after their final training session at HNK Rijeka's stadium. 
 
“We took care about fatigue in the last training sessions, and it made a huge difference for us to have three days in between so we could actually take care of players with a high output, like Elliot Anderson and Anthony Gordon, for example,” said Tuchel.

“Today, everyone was in training except for Nico O'Reilly, who unfortunately had to leave camp to get treatment  but everyone else started and finished training today on a high level and we're here in beautiful weather, in a beautiful part of the earth with friendly people.”

A close-knit group

The England head coach has also been encouraged by the togetherness within his squad, with the players and staff enjoying spending time together away from the pitch in what is a longer international window than usual.

“We're a group that likes to hang out with each other so it feels like almost like friends and like staff and players,” he said.

“We had been seven weeks together in the US, so we have a strong bond and the possibility to be here in this beautiful place.

“And then we train on a high level, when we do what we love most, training football in this environment…what is not to love?”

But while the setting has provided an opportunity to recharge, Tuchel is fully aware that the focus must now turn to the task ahead.

“It’s beautiful and it’s a good time to recharge and also prepare for the match, because we expect a very difficult game tomorrow against a big football nation and a proud country with a team full of quality in the Croatian side.”

Croatia challenge awaits

England can expect a stern examination against a Croatian side boasting plenty of experience alongside emerging talent.

Tuchel highlighted the quality within the hosts’ squad, as well as the added motivation that comes with a new coach taking charge in the form of a familiar face from English football in Slaven Bilic.

“They have very, very experienced players on the other side and also a good mix of young players and a new coach,” added Tuchel.

“So you know how it is, everyone tries to impress the new coach, everyone is ready to go and give everything for the new coach.

“I think this is what waits for us. It feels a little bit like a cup game and we will prepare for it carefully.

“They have a lot of quality, technically, and they are big competitors on the highest level. There’s been several matches over the years between the two countries and it’s a promising one.”

A special occasion for a select number of supporters

 

The match will also provide a memorable occasion for the few supporters who will be inside the stadium.

With the game taking place behind closed doors due to a UEFA punishment for crowd behaviour at Croatia's home game with France last year, there will be opportunity for local children and a small number of the most loyal travelling England fans to see the game at close quarters.

“First of all, I’m happy for the children that they have an opportunity to come and watch. That’s a big inspiration for them and a big occasion to see the players that close,” said Tuchel.

“The stadium is very small and very close up to the players, so it’s a unique occasion.

“I’m glad that our 100 or 200 fans have a chance to be here. That means a lot to us, that the most loyal fans have a chance to be behind the doors.”

Tuchel says the atmosphere will be something his players must embrace, while recognising that the environment will be markedly different from the usual international stage.

“Everyone, me included, involved in this match, we love the atmosphere in the stadium and we love a proper football crowd.

"This will be very, very different and this is like a part that we have to take into consideration.”

No holiday mode

 

Despite the relaxed surroundings and positive mood within the camp in the build-up to the game, Tuchel was clear that England cannot afford to lose sight of what is at stake.

“We cannot fall asleep in the beautiful place where we are,” he said.

“We cannot switch off and be in holiday mode and then tomorrow, there are a lot of children so it might feel a little bit like pre-season.

"But it’s not pre-season. It’s a crucial game in the Nations League and this is just another layer to be professional and to take care about.”