‘Ready to go to war’ – Jordan Pickford reveals Thomas Tuchel’s rallying cry as England target World Cup glory

Jordan Pickford has revealed England’s players are prepared to “go to war” for Thomas Tuchel as the Three Lions head into the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup full of confidence.

The Everton goalkeeper praised the England manager for creating a strong sense of belief and unity within the squad ahead of their last-32 clash with DR Congo.

Pickford hails Tuchel’s winning mentality

England progressed through the group stage unbeaten and now turn their attention to the knockout rounds, where Tuchel’s side know there is no margin for error.

According to Pickford, the German coach has transformed the atmosphere inside the camp with powerful team talks and detailed tactical preparation.

“Belief, togetherness. I think we have had that previously, but I think the manager’s got that belief in us,” Pickford said.

“The meetings the manager has with us, it is like you are ready to go to war. He puts that belief in you.

“There are different meetings he has tactically, and it is like, ‘Yeah, it’s go time.’

“We all want the same goal, we all want that end goal and this squad he has picked, we are all in good spirits and all in good moments in our career.”

Defensive injuries hand Tuchel selection headache

England’s preparations have been complicated by injuries in a position that has traditionally been one of the squad’s greatest strengths.

Reece James, Tino Livramento and Jarell Quansah have all been sidelined, leaving Djed Spence as Tuchel’s only recognised right-back option heading into the knockout phase.

The England boss has acknowledged the challenge, admitting it remains a race against time for several defenders to regain fitness. With experienced internationals Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier no longer involved, England’s defensive depth has been severely tested.

Despite the setbacks, Pickford insists the unity within the squad will help overcome any tactical adjustments required.

Pickford focused on becoming the best version of himself

The England goalkeeper also revealed he has devoted significant attention to the psychological side of his game ahead of the tournament, believing his personal development can help him perform under the pressure of World Cup football.

“(It is) a lot of growth I am working on and being the best version of myself,” Pickford told ITV Sport.

“We have got targets, who I am working with, and it is about being the best version of me and where that can take me.

“We know the journey it can take me on, and believing in that, and being me.”

With England entering the knockout stages carrying genuine title ambitions, Pickford believes the combination of Tuchel’s leadership, squad togetherness and individual preparation has the Three Lions well equipped for the challenges ahead.