Tuchel explains England’s attacking formula as Kane, Bellingham, Saka and Gordon strike again

England’s attacking quartet of Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon produced six goals between them in the 7-0 victory over Croatia in Rijeka, as Thomas Tuchel revealed the adjustment behind their outstanding form.

Kane and Saka scored twice each, while Gordon and Bellingham added one goal apiece in a historic win for the Three Lions.

The result underlined the quartet’s growing influence. They have scored 27 of England’s 31 goals since the start of the World Cup, highlighting the scale of their contribution to the team’s attacking output.

Tuchel said the four players had developed a strong understanding and were continuing to improve.

“The attacking quartet have great harmony and understanding, and they have high morale. They are constantly developing,” the Germany manager said.

“They enjoy playing together and understand each other better. We adjusted their positions slightly after the World Cup, but primarily they are a strong attacking four and their movement is at the highest level.”

England face Czech Republic in the Nations League tomorrow, with Tuchel’s comments offering an insight into the changes he made after the World Cup.

Bellingham has also been used in a more advanced role by Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid, but Tuchel believes the midfielder is most dangerous when deployed even further forward for England.

“He plays in a slightly more attacking way with us; that is where I see him being more dangerous,” Tuchel said.

He added: “Jude is playing at a high level, like the rest of the players, and I am pleased with that. But I am even happier with the team’s performance as a whole, the high morale they showed, the quality, the enthusiasm and the humility in their approach.

“I liked their determination to continue pressing. Their reaction after losing the ball was always at the highest level, even when the result of the match had already been decided.”

Tuchel praises England’s squad depth

Tuchel also highlighted the quality of the players competing for places outside his starting line-up.

“The level and spirit of the substitutes are good as well. Morgan Gibbs-White had a great performance during the training week, Morgan Rogers scored a goal, and Eberechi Eze had a good match against Czech Republic after coming on as a substitute,” he said.

The manager also issued an indirect warning to Declan Rice, who withdrew from the camp because of physical problems, after Bournemouth player Alex Scott impressed on his first start.

“We need performances like this. We cannot continue with only two players in the midfield position,” Tuchel said.

“Declan knows how important he is and he is one of the best midfielders in Europe. Nothing will change that, but this is exactly what we need – more variety and more options.

“It is always about the players who are in camp, and Alex was at the top of his game.”