England captain Harry Kane has played down suggestions of a rift between manager Thomas Tuchel and Jude Bellingham, insisting the coach’s criticism is intended to push the team to improve rather than create division.
The debate followed England’s 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals, when Tuchel publicly criticised his side’s performance despite reaching the last four. Bellingham, who scored both goals, defended the team’s display, pointing to the difficult weather conditions and the quality of Norway’s attack.
Speaking before the semi-final against Argentina, Kane backed Tuchel’s approach, saying the England boss «just wants to see the best version of us» and is trying to get the highest standards from his players. The striker dismissed claims of dressing-room tension, insisting the squad remains united as it prepares for one of its biggest matches of the tournament.
