- England boss Thomas Tuchel singled out a Brighton figure for special praise
- Albion representative will travel with England to the World Cup in the USA
- Tuchel also thanked Brighton for their support during the international camp
Jason Steele may not be one of England’s three official World Cup goalkeepers but the Brighton man has still earned glowing praise from Thomas Tuchel ahead of this summer’s tournament in the USA.
The Albion goalkeeper will travel with England as part of Tuchel’s wider support group after impressing the national team staff during recent camps and friendly fixtures. Steele previously worked with the squad during matches against Uruguay and Japan at Wembley and has clearly made a lasting impact behind the scenes.
Tuchel took time during his latest press conference to highlight Steele’s contribution while also thanking Brighton for their help throughout the process.
Addressing reporters the England manager said:
“We chose three goalkeepers plus Jason Steele. I want to take the opportunity to thank Jason for being brilliant and thank Brighton for being so co operative and supportive.”
Read more: Brighton vs Man United: The last five meeting revisited
Steele continues to earn respect behind the scenes
Steele has quietly built a reputation as one of Brighton’s most trusted professionals during his spell at the Amex. The experienced goalkeeper has worked under several managers including Chris Hughton Graham Potter Roberto De Zerbi and Fabian Hurzeler while remaining a valued figure within the dressing room.
Although Dean Henderson Jordan Pickford and James Trafford were the three goalkeepers officially selected in England’s 26 man squad Tuchel clearly sees Steele as an important presence within the group.
Also read: “Right man for the job” – Gus Poyet’s verdict on Hurzeler
Tuchel explains England selection decisions
England’s squad announcement has sparked debate among supporters and sections of the media with several high profile omissions drawing attention. Brighton pair Danny Welbeck and Jack Hinshelwood were both linked with possible inclusion before the final squad was confirmed.
Tuchel however defended his approach and insisted success at major tournaments depends on building the right collective spirit rather than simply selecting the biggest names.
Speaking during the media briefing Tuchel said:
“Teams win championships it is as simple as that. I think from day one we were very clear that we are trying to select and build the best possible team which is not necessarily to select and collect the 26 most talented players. What we are trying to achieve in the summer can only be achieved as a team.”
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