Tuchel defends Bellingham after clash with Queiroz
England manager Thomas Tuchel defended Jude Bellingham after the player's clumsy tackle sparked a reaction from Ghana's bench and a confrontation with manager Carlos Queiroz.
Jude Bellingham, who at 22 became the youngest England player to reach 50 caps, was unable to help the team build on their opening win over Croatia. Ghana spent much of the match in a defensive shape and ultimately kept Tuchel's side at bay.
The incident occurred when Bellingham made a clumsy tackle. After the game, he explained he was trying to win the ball but followed through and caught the opponent. He apologized afterwards, but Ghana's bench immediately jumped up, demanding a yellow card. Bellingham recognized Ghana manager Carlos Queiroz, with whom he worked at Manchester United, and expressed respect, adding that it was just a competitive edge from both sides.
Tuchel defended his player, saying the tackle was silly and Queiroz's reaction was overblown. The manager emphasized that Bellingham has to fight for his place in the starting XI, and their relationship has often been under scrutiny. Last June, Tuchel described Bellingham's on-field behavior as "repulsive" after a defeat to Senegal, a remark he later apologized for. In November, he said he would review the player's behavior after his reaction to being substituted in a qualifier against Albania.
Bellingham scored against Croatia and was named player of the match in the draw with Ghana. However, after receiving the award, he said he didn't deserve it and that it should have gone to one of Ghana's defenders who played so well.
