THOMAS TUCHEL’s biggest challenge at the World Cup is what goes on away from training – not on the field.
That is according to , who went to five major tournaments with and played during an era or success under .
Kyle Walker thinks time outside of training is key to master at major tournaments Credit: Darren Fletcher
England could spend six weeks together in the heat and pressure of a World Cup this summer Credit: Getty
Speaking at an exclusive event ahead of the World Cup in America, , and , Walker told The Sun: “When you’re in the tournament there’s a lot of downtime.
“You’re training for an hour and a half on the field and you might do a gym session, but all in all, you might be wrapped up by 1pm or 2pm.
“That’s until the next day when you’re doing the same thing again, and it’s about filling that time in-between when you’re missing your family and friends.”
Former Three Lions defender Walker was capped 96 times by his country but has been left out under new boss Tuchel since last summer.
He was a regular in Southgate’s run to two finals and the 2018 World Cup semis, and believes the real strength of a tournament squad is harmony during an extended period away from home.
Walker added: “Keeping entertained, that’s what we probably got the grasp of after the Russia camp.
“We could always knock on each other’s room, we could always have a conversation with each other.
“People would be downstairs having coffees together and I think that’s what brings the togetherness out.
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“Going into a tournament or a major competition like the World Cup, you need to make sure the camaraderie is together.
“And I think England, well, when I left, it was good.”
with the potential of being away for six weeks if they go all the way to the final.
They will sweat it out in Miami with friendlies against and to come before opening against .
with experienced heads Jordan Henderson and controversially included.
Having popular figures in the camp is viewed as increasingly popular with training goalkeepers now a regular pick to travel but not play.
At 2022 was selected due to his standing in practice and within the squad rather than the likeliness of getting any minutes.
Tuchel has also named several youngsters to train with his team outside of the main 26 as he prepares for the tournament.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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