Zhipan Sport

Tuchel not afraid to shout at players - Watkins

Jun 22, 06:04 AM

Ollie Watkins says Thomas Tuchel is "not afraid" to shout at England players as the manager aims to maintain training standards at the World Cup.

England striker Ollie Watkins has revealed that manager Thomas Tuchel is "not afraid" to raise his voice at players during training, as the German coach strives to maintain the highest standards ahead of the World Cup. Watkins, who has been a regular under Tuchel, described the manager's intense approach as both demanding and effective. "He's not afraid to shout at you if you're not doing what he wants," Watkins said in an interview. "He demands perfection in every drill, every pass, every movement. If you switch off for a second, he'll let you know immediately." The striker admitted that Tuchel's high-pressure style took some getting used to, but he believes it is exactly what the squad needs to compete at the highest level. Watkins highlighted a specific training session where Tuchel stopped play multiple times to correct positioning. "He was shouting instructions from the sideline, making sure everyone was in the right place. It was intense, but you could see the improvement after each correction. He doesn't let anything slide." The forward noted that Tuchel's attention to detail extends beyond the training pitch, with the manager often reviewing video footage with individual players to fine-tune their performances. The England squad has been preparing intensively for the World Cup, with Tuchel implementing a rigorous schedule that includes double sessions and tactical drills. Watkins said the manager's methods have already fostered a culture of accountability. "Everyone knows they have to be at their best every day. There's no room for complacency. That's the standard he's set, and we're all buying into it." Despite the strict approach, Watkins emphasized that Tuchel also knows how to motivate players. "He's not just about shouting. He'll pull you aside and have a quiet word, explain what he needs from you. He understands the psychology of players. It's a balance between being tough and being supportive." The striker believes this balance is crucial for maintaining morale during a long tournament. As the World Cup draws closer, Watkins expressed confidence in Tuchel's leadership. "He's won trophies at the highest level, and he knows what it takes to win. We trust his methods completely. If he shouts, it's because he cares. And that's what we need." The forward concluded by saying the team is fully focused on the task ahead, with Tuchel driving them to reach their full potential.