Tuchel: ‘We’re on a high level’

Thomas Tuchel believes England’s UEFA Nations League campaign has shown that his side are on a “high level” after their World Cup exploits.

The Three Lions secured their third win in four games on Tuesday night, defeating Czechia 3-0 at Wembley Stadium thanks to a brace from Harry Kane and an own goal from Vladimir Coufal.

Tuchel’s men suffered a narrow 3-2 defeat to world champions Spain in their opening game of the competition but have bounced back in style, scoring 12 goals without reply - including a stunning 7-0 victory away in Croatia last weekend.

The Three Lions head coach was delighted with his side’s performance against Czechia, pointing towards the positive effect of finishing third at last summer’s World Cup.

“I think we played a very good match, very fluid,” Tuchel told ITV after the game.

“I think we dominated through the whole match, very focused. It's our fourth match in three or four days. It was a very good performance again and deserved win.”

Expanding on his squad’s development, Tuchel added: “Training and attitude, cohesion, belief. 

“Of course, we didn't go out in the group stage [of the World Cup] and of course it made us stronger. 

“We're on a high level, that's been throughout, that's how it is. You learn every day and go stronger through the matches."

Tuchel also had his say on Kane, who became England’s joint most-capped men’s player of all time on the night, drawing level with legendary goalkeeper Peter Shilton on 125 caps.

The Bayern Munich man delivered a low cross to force Coufal’s own goal before getting on the scoresheet twice himself, converting a pinpoint cross from Morgan Rogers for his first and heading home a Lewis Hall corner to make it 3-0.

"It's what he does,” Tuchel said. “I don't take it for granted, it's just exceptional every single match."

England will play their final two Nations League group games in November (against Croatia and Spain) as they look to seal a place at next summer’s finals, and Tuchel admits picking his squad is becoming tougher due to increased competition for places.

He said: "Yeah always on a high level, it is difficult to nominate the squad. 

“I'm happy that everyone was contributing and giving everything they have got to the shirt and the team. 

“They set the standards high and that's what it looked like from the outside and that is how it is on the inside."