England captain Harry Kane has accused a television journalist of attempting to create division within the national team following Jude Bellingham’s viral response to manager Thomas Tuchel’s criticism after their World Cup victory over Norway.
Bellingham had been asked by ITV reporter Gabriel Clarke to react to Tuchel’s post-match assessment after England’s 2-1 extra-time win over Norway in the Round of 16.
Tuchel had described his players as “lucky” and criticised their performance, saying they made life “very, very difficult” for themselves despite advancing to the quarter-finals.
Responding shortly after the match, Bellingham questioned whether the England boss understood the demands of playing in temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, fuelling speculation of a disagreement between player and manager.
However, Kane dismissed suggestions of a rift, insisting the media had exaggerated the situation.
“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 told the BBC.
The England skipper accused the media of attempting to sow discord 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 outspoken style, saying the players fully understood the manager’s criticism and accepted responsibility for their performance.
“We understand what the boss meant. He has been so complimentary of the group. He said the mentality of the group, which is sometimes the hardest part, has been at the highest level.
“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 quarter-finals on Wednesday.
