Thomas Tuchel responds to national anthem question after Lee Carsley controversy

Thomas Tuchel has refused to rule out singing the national anthem when he finally takes charge of England in March.

And with placeholder Lee Carsley - Birmingham-born but a former Ireland international - refusing to sing God Save The King, Tuchel was predictably asked if he had considered the issue.

"I understood from Mark [Bullingham, FA chief executive] that it is a personal decision," he said. "There are managers who sing it and others who didn't.

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"I haven't made my decision yet, I want to be honest with you. Your anthem is very moving, the English anthem is very moving. I've experienced several times at Wembley and even out with the players at an final.

"It was very touching. No matter what decision I will make, and we have until March, I will always show my respect to my new role, the new country and a very moving anthem. As it's a news object, I will take a little time for this decision."

Tuchel, who has been out of work since leaving in May, has penned an 18-month deal and will be reunited with assistant manager Anthony Barry.

He added: “I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team.

“I have long felt a personal connection to the game in this country, and it has given me some incredible moments already. To have the chance to represent England is a huge privilege, and the opportunity to work with this special and talented group of players is very exciting.

“Working closely with Anthony as my assistant coach, we will do everything we can to make England successful and the supporters proud. I want to thank the FA, in particular Mark and John, for their trust and I am looking forward to starting our journey together.”

The FA's chief executive Bullingham added: "Fundamentally we wanted to hire a coaching team to give us the best possible chance of winning a major tournament, and we believe they will do just that,” the chief executive said on Tuesday morning.

“Thomas and the team have a single-minded focus on giving us the best possible chance to win the World Cup in 2026.”

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