FA’s Mark Bullingham defends English coaching system after hiring Thomas Tuchel - Tuchel will become England’s third overseas head coach of the men’s team when he starts work next year.

Bullingham, who led the recruitment process with the FA's technical director John McDermott, revealed they interviewed "approximately 10 candidates", some of whom were English, but believes Tuchel gives England "the best chance" of winning the 2026 World Cup.

British soccer managers reacted with disappointment and a degree of resignation on Thursday after a German, Thomas Tuchel, was hired to take charge of England ahead of a homegrown coach. Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham said some English managers — he didn’t disclose the precise number — were interviewed for the role from a shortlist of “approximately” 10 names.