England's Harry Kane, Rico Lewis, and Morgan Rogers during a training session. — Reuters
England captain Harry Kane anticipates that incoming coach Thomas Tuchel will receive the support of fans, despite his nationality, noting that the German's impressive track record could help the team end a 58-year drought for a major trophy. England has reached a World Cup semifinal and two European Championship finals under Gareth Southgate, but has not won the World Cup or any other major trophy since 1966. Former Paris St Germain, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich coach Tuchel was appointed last month, becoming the first German to manage England and only the third foreigner to take charge after Sweden's Sven-Goran Eriksson and Italian Fabio Capello. He will assume control of England in January.
"I believe the fans will (back Tuchel). It will largely depend on results - and possibly the style of play. Ultimately, England fans want to win," Kane told reporters on Saturday. "We all want to win. I think Thomas offers us a great chance to do that with his history of winning the Champions League and major competitions." Kane acknowledges that Tuchel will need to deliver, both in terms of playing style and results. "Ultimately, in 19 months, if we win the World Cup together, I don't think anyone will have an issue with him."
Kane, England's captain and all-time leading goal scorer, worked with Tuchel at Bayern, where they developed a strong working relationship. "Thomas is very disciplined in what he expects - and he won't hesitate to confront issues if necessary," Kane said. "He strikes the right balance of maintaining a relaxed environment off the pitch, with some humor and jokes, but when on the field, it's all about full focus." For international football, having that energy in short bursts is crucial, especially during major tournaments when the team is away for extended periods and sees the same faces repeatedly.
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