England manager Thomas Tuchel believes Jude Bellingham is at his best when he plays with “a bit of rage” as the midfielder prepares to face the Czech Republic in the Nations League.
Bellingham impressed despite England’s 3-2 defeat to Spain at Wembley in their Nations League opener and was involved in several heated exchanges during the encounter, including one with his Real Madrid team-mate Marc Cucurella.
Tuchel believes the midfielder’s fiery nature can help him find an extra edge during matches.
“He likes that. He gets better if that happens,” Tuchel said.
“It’s better if he plays with a bit of rage. It’s what he does. I think sometimes he is looking for these moments to get his fire going.”
Asked about Bellingham’s exchange with Cucurella, Tuchel said the midfielder temporarily puts friendships aside when playing for England.
“I think he doesn’t know any teammates when he is in the national team.
“He wants to win. He doesn’t know any team-mates. He is still friends with them but not for the 90 minutes,” he added.
Bellingham helped England push Spain until the final stages of the match and forced a late save from goalkeeper Unai Simón.
The 23-year-old had also been named England’s Player of the Year for the second consecutive season before the international break.
Tuchel is keen to have Bellingham available when England take on the Czech Republic in Prague on Tuesday, although he admitted the demanding schedule could influence his selection.
England are playing four Nations League matches in 11 days, prompting concerns over player workload and the need for rotation.
“I would love to have him four times on the pitch,” Tuchel said. “I think the concern is that he hasn’t done it this season in this tight period.
“We will need to check with the physios. We will not put Jude at risk. But in terms of style, it’s just how he plays.”
Tuchel also said he would prefer to maintain a settled side during the international window but acknowledged that rotation could be necessary.
“My ideal scenario would be to go again and go again and go again, with six or seven players minimum that start again that we trust,” he said.
“To put the responsibility on them and let them feel the trust. But I am not sure it’s possible. Let’s see.”
England will face the Czech Republic in Prague on Tuesday, with kick-off scheduled for 7.45pm.
