Former England and Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham has criticised the Football Association’s decision to appoint Thomas Tuchel as England’s next head coach.
Softfootball understands that Tuchel was confirmed as Gareth Southgate’s successor last month and will officially assume the role on January 1 after signing an 18-month contract aimed at leading England to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The German becomes only the third foreign manager to take charge of the Three Lions, following the spells of Sven-Göran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.
While Tuchel’s appointment has sparked debate because of his nationality, Sheringham believes the greater concern is the short-term nature of the contract.
Speaking to Best Offshore Sportsbooks, the former striker argued that the FA had abandoned the long-term vision established under Southgate, who spent eight years rebuilding the national team.
Sheringham said he found it strange that England had moved away from a strategy focused on gradual development by appointing a manager on an 18-month deal, adding that Tuchel may not be invested in the team’s future beyond the World Cup.
He also questioned why Tuchel would not begin work immediately, with interim manager Lee Carsley remaining in charge for England’s final UEFA Nations League fixtures of the year.
According to Sheringham, Tuchel should already be working with the squad, getting to know the players and implementing his ideas rather than waiting until January.
The former United forward suggested the arrangement could create uncertainty within the squad, with players unsure whether to impress Carsley or prepare for Tuchel’s arrival.
Despite acknowledging Tuchel’s impressive managerial pedigree, including his UEFA Champions League triumph with Chelsea, Sheringham warned that the German must be careful not to undo the progress England made during Southgate’s tenure.
