There was outcry in the English media. In its bid to end its decades-long wait for a trophy, England’s national team had turned to a German.

Thomas Tuchel was appointed England manager in October, started the job in January and on Friday will finally take charge of the national team for the first time. The German was hired with a view to winning the World Cup in 2026 and his first match marks the beginning of qualifying for that competition, with Albania visiting Wembley.

Thomas Tuchel will name his first England XI on Friday night as the Three Lions line up against Albania in their 2026 World Cup qualifier. Five months on from his official appointment, the German coach has had his first opportunity to work with the group at St George’s Park this week.