Tired England play with fear - ex-manager Capello

Head coach Thomas Tuchel must address England's tendency to "play with fear" if they are to win the World Cup this summer, says former boss Fabio Capello.

In England's one major tournament under Capello - the 2010 World Cup - they scored only three goals in four games and were knocked out in the last 16.

Capello, who was appointed England boss in December 2007 and led the side until February 2012, said his players were tired and blamed the lack of a winter break, external in the English game.

Gareth Southgate led England to the finals of the past two European Championships and the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup.

Now Tuchel will get his turn to target a trophy, but Capello has concerns.

Capello told BBC Sport: "This is the problem for England. They are tired and they fear. The manager, he has to cancel these two things."

Capello pointed to the Euro 2020 final, when England took an early lead against Italy, only to draw 1-1 and lose on penalties.

"I remember the game against Italy," he said. "They are winning after 10-15 minutes and after they don't play. They play with fear."

Tuchel succeeded Southgate in 2024 and England qualified for the World Cup with a 100% record.

However, they drew 1-1 with Uruguay and lost 1-0 to Japan in friendlies last month.

The World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico runs from 11 June to 19 July.