England boss speaks out on pitch ahead of New Zealand friendly in Tampa
Tuchel said all members of the squad will get 45 minutes of game time on Saturday (Reuters)
England manager Thomas Tuchel has expressed concern over the patchwork pitch at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa ahead of Saturday’s friendly against New Zealand.
Despite his worries about the playing surface, Tuchel confirmed it would not impact his team selection, with plans for all players to get 45 minutes of game time.
The friendly match serves as a crucial part of England’s preparations and acclimatisation for the upcoming World Cup, where they will face Croatia on June 17.
The team is currently in Florida to adjust to the hot and humid conditions expected at the tournament.
England’s 27-man squad includes several uncapped training members who are filling in for players given a break after Arsenal’s recent Champions League final loss.