Eze reveals Tuchel's touchline message after making World Cup debut for England

Eberechi Eze has opened up on the message Thomas Tuchel delivered to him on the touchline before he made his World Cup debut as a substitute against Ghana, describing the experience as one he does not take for granted.

The Arsenal midfielder came off the bench but could not help England find a winning goal. Despite the frustrating result, Eze spoke warmly about his introduction to the tournament and made clear he is ready to contribute in whatever capacity Tuchel requires.

“Go out, enjoy it, try to win the game, really focus on what you are trying to do,” Eze said of Tuchel’s instructions. “It’s something I am blessed to have and something that I do not take for granted. Trying to find space in a system is difficult; being effective, each game is different, is interesting and gives you the right of way I guess.”

Eze added that he has no preference over whether he starts or comes off the bench, framing both roles as a personal responsibility. “I don’t mind which position and role to play for me, as long as I am doing that, whether starting or coming off the bench it is your responsibility and enjoy as much as I can. You want to come in and affect the game. They were difficult, they were extremely solid, but that is my responsibility to change the game.”

The 26-year-old also credited Arsenal’s Premier League title win with giving him an extra edge heading into the World Cup. “Having players who have won things, it makes you even more confident,” he said. “For me it is no different, I try not to take too much interest in what people say, we are on the inside and focusing on what we need to win.”

Eze said he is not feeling the physical toll of a long club season, insisting his motivation for the tournament is more than enough to keep him sharp. He also singled out Ivory Coast as one of the sides that has caught his eye, praising their ball management and the quality of their squad.

Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford is pushing to start England’s final group-stage match against Panama. The Barcelona forward has featured for just 27 minutes across the campaign so far, coming on late against Ghana after managing hamstring and muscle tightness following the Croatia game. Rashford is understood to feel fully fit and ready to start.