Exclusive: Former England Defender Praises ‘Superb’ Arsenal Star’s Performances Under Thomas Tuchel | OneFootball

Former England Star Reacts to Thomas Tuchel’s Opening Games and Names the Arsenal Star that Impressed Him

After years of Gareth Southgate’s uninspiring management, supporters finally got their wish following EURO 2024 with Thomas Tuchel replacing the English head coach in the dugout – but have things really changed?

The former Chelsea head coach promised to bring a newly exciting style of play to the England national team, but many have been left fairly bored after the opening two games against Albania and Latvia.

Former England star Danny Mills spoke exclusively to EPL Index and shared his thoughts on their performances and also named one Arsenal star that caught his eye…

Has Anything Changed Yet?

“I think it has been okay so far,” said Mills, “But Tuchel was quite bullish in his first few interviews when speaking about his exciting football, but it’s easier said than done.”

“I’m pretty sure that Southgate wanted to play exciting football, but it’s very hard against teams who come and just want to sit deep and soak up pressure,” continued Mills.

Photo: IMAGO

“I didn’t think it was anything different to what we saw under Southgate and he is already running out of games before his first major tournament,” warned Mills.

That is the harsh reality of managing on the international stage, with managers having just a handful of training camps to make their influence on the squad of players.

Mills was keen to point this out, saying: “Managing England isn’t so much about coaching, but more about man management and getting a direct message across to the players.”

“All of the players play for different clubs, they all play in different styles for those clubs and are all used to different shapes and tactics,” continued Mills, “But the England manager only has two or three days with them to share his ideas.”

Mills Heaps Praise on ‘Superb’ Arsenal Star

When asked who had impressed him over the two games, Mills was quick to point out his praise for a certain Arsenal youngster.

“I think Myles Lewis-Skelly did very well and was very assured for such a young player,” said Mills, “He was absolutely superb in the first game and of course grabs his first goal for England too with a nice finish.”

Photo: IMAGO

But it wasn’t just the fresh youngsters that impressed, with one of England’s most experienced playerrs also catching Mills’ eye.

“Harry Kane was really good too,” continued Mills, “His goal in the first game was absolutely tremendous and it’s not so much about the finish, but more about the composure.”

“So many players would’ve panicked and snatched at that chance, but he just relaxed, paused and stroked it into the corner.”

“But other than those two players, I don’t think anybody really excelled over the first two games…”