Thomas Tuchel’s appointment as England’s new boss left skipper Harry Kane “surprised”

Harry Kane expressed his feelings over Thomas Tuchel's appointment as England's new boss.  (Image credits - FMT, License Details)

England captain Harry Kane admitted his “surprise” over Thomas Tuchel’s appointment as former manager Gareth Southgate’s replacement.

The star striker had previously worked with the German coach at his current club, Bayern Munich, during his first season with the German giants.

Kane didn't expect the former Chelsea and Borussia Dortmund boss as an international manager, while also being astonished by the fact that the Three Lions announced a non-Englishman as their new manager in over a decade.

The England skipper also highlighted the difference between the “Southgate-ball” and the “Tuchel-ball", having spent minutes under both managers. Kane also stated he felt that the Three Lions, despite reaching the final of the 2024 UEFA Euro, lacked rhythm.

The 31-year-old forward also shed light on how Thomas Tuchel’s appointment has brought more “enthusiasm” and “energy” to the training sessions, stating that the players are impressed by the German coach’s ideas.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Harry Kane said, "He did [get the best out of me] last season. There are no real rules to how I play – he sees me as the No. 9, the guy to be in the box and score him the goals. But there were times in the build-up where I was the guy linking up the play, maybe getting us out of a high-pressure situation.” (sic)

He further praised Tuchel’s tactical resilience by stating, “If I did get on the ball, he spoke a lot about having runners for me, the wingers and a No. 10 if I did drop. This week, he wants a lot of the ball in the opposition half, a lot of counter-pressing, and me being the one in the box and scoring the chances.” (sic)

Tuchel's appointment brings optimism in the England camp

England fans have been singing “It's coming home” for quite some time now, but it has not been the case so far. Many managers have come over the years but have always failed to cross the final hurdle.

The next major tournament that is in the Three Lions’ sights is the FIFA World Cup next year, being held in the United States of America.

With a combination of experience and brimming talent in the squad, the only major challenge that the 51-year-old manager will face is picking the right set of players.

The fans are expecting fluid attacking football under Tuchel, with such amazing depth available in the front line. Southgate had been criticised for his pragmatic approach and not utilising the brilliant quality available in England’s attack properly.

Thomas Tuchel will take charge of his second game as the Three Lions’ new ‘tamer’ on Tuesday against Latvia in their World Cup qualification campaign, after having secured a comfortable win against Albania in his first game in charge.