England manager Thomas Tuchel believes Jude Bellingham performs at his best when he plays with a “bit of rage”, as the midfielder prepares for Tuesday’s Nations League match against the Czech Republic.
Bellingham impressed in England’s 3-2 defeat by Spain, helping the Three Lions push their opponents to the final moments at Wembley. Tuchel said the Real Madrid midfielder responds positively when opponents try to provoke him.
“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.”
The England boss also referred to Bellingham’s heated exchange with Real Madrid team-mate Marc Cucurella during the match, stressing that the midfielder’s competitive instinct takes over when he represents his country.
“He wants to win. He doesn’t know any team-mates. He is still friends with them but not for the 90 minutes,” Tuchel said.
Bellingham was named England’s Player of the Year for the second consecutive season during the week and nearly helped his side secure a result against Spain, forcing a late save from goalkeeper Unai Simón.
Tuchel said he would like to start the 23-year-old again as England continue their autumn campaign, but admitted the midfielder’s workload would be assessed by the medical team.
“We will need to check with the physios. We will not put Jude at risk,” he said.
England face the Czech Republic on Tuesday as Tuchel looks to build on the promise shown against Spain while addressing the defensive weaknesses exposed in the 3-2 loss.
