Thomas Tuchel believes Jordan Henderson keeps England's standards high in the dressing room. The veteran midfielder's leadership could prove crucial after Henderson's Euro 2024 snub was seen as England's fatal flaw.
Bellingham Opens Up About Euro 2024 Issues
Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers sat on the Lions' Den sofa last week, and the conversation was revealing. Bellingham said, "It didn't feel like there was any kind of hierarchy. I think at the Euros we got some things a little bit wrong off the pitch. I don't feel like the group connected as well as it could have – for a number of reasons."
There were issues within the camp two years ago. Bellingham added, "We weren't playing particularly well, which doesn't help. Even when we were winning we didn't get the feeling that we were as happy as we should be."
Southgate's Squad Decisions Questioned
England never held on to the feeling. The vibe was off and the lack of connection was palpable. Gareth Southgate had to take Harry Kane for a walk to explain his squad thinking. He dropped Harry Maguire, Jack Grealish, Marcus Rashford, and Jordan Henderson.
England never found a way to operate without Henderson's leadership. They toiled before losing to Spain in the final. Bellingham produced brilliant moments but sometimes showed petulance. Henderson, protective of Bellingham, was missed. Kane was relieved when Tuchel decided to bring Henderson back.
Tuchel's Plan for Team Culture
Tuchel spent time understanding why England played without identity. He concluded that creating the right atmosphere would be easier with Henderson around to keep standards high. Henderson turns 36 when England face Croatia in their World Cup opener. He is not a starter but is respected by teammates.
Bellingham and Rogers called Henderson the best person they have met in football. Henderson is the glue holding everything together. He defended Bellingham and praised Declan Rice, England's new vice-captain. Henderson said, "It's important to make sure the culture off the pitch is good but that's not down to one person."
Henderson's On-Field Impact
Henderson brought intensity in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Miami FC. Tuchel says pressing is key to England's identity. Bellingham, selected over Rogers at No 10, was exceptional without the ball. Tuchel has focused on character and healthy competition.
Henderson resents the idea he is a glorified cheerleader. He feels he can contribute on the pitch, even from the bench. His leadership behind the scenes will be crucial. Southgate underestimated him, but Tuchel did not make the same mistake.
