England fans love Thomas Tuchel’s response after being asked to speak in German | Football

Thomas Tuchel refused to answer a question in German at his first England squad announcement.

Tuchel fielded questions at St George’s Park on Friday morning after naming his first Three Lions squad.

The former Chelsea, PSG and Borussia Dortmund manager, who was appointed by England following Sir Gareth Southgate’s resignation, offered his thoughts on the squad and explained some of the more controversial selections.

At one point, a reporter from German broadcaster ARD asked Tuchel what he has learned since taking over at the start of January and requested he responded in his native German tongue.

‘Good morning, I understand I’m asking the question in English but if you could answer in English and in German I will waive my second question,’ the journalist said.

But Tuchel denied the request following a quick look at his media officer, saying: ‘I would like to do it just in English out of respect to where we are and all the others [reporters] here.

‘What have I learned? Every day I am more happy that I took the decision to come here and was given the chance to manage the England squad.

‘We’ve had a good start together – me and the federation – but also with the coaching staff and the players.

‘Communication is more difficult than in club football but we are all very excited to get on the pitch together.’

England fans enjoyed Tuchel’s response, with one saying the 51-year-old clearly ‘gets it’.

Another posted on X: ‘Love the fact Thomas Tuchel refused to answer a question in his press conference in German.’

England take on Albania next Friday night in Tuchel’s first game in charge, before another World Cup qualifier against Latvia the following Monday.

More to follow…

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