Pressure is on world champions Argentina in semi-final - Guehi

England manager Thomas Tuchel has sought to quell any perceived friction between himself and star midfielder Jude Bellingham, following Bellingham's terse response to criticism of the team's performance. Tuchel had described England's quarter-final victory as "lucky" and stated they "made life very, very difficult for ourselves."

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Yeah well, whatever.

When asked about Tuchel's comments post-match, Bellingham, who had scored twice to secure the win, simply replied, "Yeah well, whatever." Tuchel, however, downplayed the exchange, attributing Bellingham's reaction to post-match exhaustion and the nature of the interview question. "It's a post-match interview. We came from the same mindset as being competitive and wanting to win. He scored two goals and was exhausted because he gave everything," Tuchel explained. He added that the reporter's question was framed negatively and did not mention his praise for Bellingham as a "world-class player."

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I'm a football coach and I try to demand the very best and not settle for lower standards.

Tuchel emphasized that there is "no issue" within the squad, stating that everyone is "hungry as everyone is" and focused on their shared goal. He reiterated his duty to push the team and maintain high standards. The manager also confirmed that Declan Rice is fit and ready to play in the semi-final against Argentina, having recovered from illness. Jordan Henderson and Jarell Quansah are the only players unavailable for the match.

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It's a post-match interview. We came from the same mindset as being competitive and wanting to win. He scored two goals and was exhausted because he gave everything.

Looking ahead to the semi-final, Tuchel acknowledged the significance of facing Argentina but stated the team does not use external rivalries or historical tensions, such as those surrounding the Falklands War, as motivation. "We respect our opponent, but we don't dip into historic events. We don't make it bigger than it is. It is a big football match and a big occasion," he said, emphasizing the team's hunger and readiness for the challenge.

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There's no issue. We're competing for the same goal. We are both still hungry as everyone is. I still feel it's my duty and job description to push and address if ever the standards drop a little but to make sure they go up.