Harry Kane dismisses England rift rumours, backs Tuchel after Bellingham comments
England captain Harry Kane has dismissed suggestions of tension within the national team, accusing the media of trying to create division following Jude Bellingham’s comments about head coach Thomas Tuchel.
The speculation began after England’s 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway, when Bellingham was asked to respond to Tuchel’s post-match assessment of the team’s performance.
Tuchel had described England as “lucky” and admitted his players made the match “very, very difficult” despite progressing to the World Cup quarter-finals.
Reacting shortly after the game, Bellingham questioned whether the manager understood how difficult it was to play in temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius, prompting reports of a possible disagreement.
Speaking to the BBC, Kane dismissed the claims, insisting Bellingham had been asked to comment before fully hearing what Tuchel had said.
“When you are playing in a game like that and to be asked a question five minutes after the final whistle, and he didn’t really know what the manager has said, what do you want Jude to say?” Kane said.
The England captain also criticised attempts to portray the exchange as a conflict within the squad.
“We had just been through a battle. It was really tough out there. It is easy to try and create this division. It seems like an English mentality, an English thing to do at these major tournaments.
“But it is the complete opposite. The group is where we are because of our togetherness — not just the players, the coach and the staff. Things sometimes get made out to be more than they are.”
Kane also defended Tuchel’s direct approach, saying the players understood the manager’s criticism and appreciated his honesty.
“He wears his heart on his sleeve and people appreciate that. When he talks, it is never scripted. That is what makes him who he is.
“He is one of the best managers in the world for a reason. We understand it. Over the past two years we have got to know him and know what makes him happy.”
England will face defending champions Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals.
