Assistant manager demands England ‘take the handbrake off’ against Norway

Assistant manager demands England ‘take the handbrake off’ against Norway England assistant manager Anthony Barry believes the Three Lions have yet to produce their best football at the World Cup and has challenged the squad to “take the handbrake off” ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final against Norway. Thomas Tuchel’s side have reached the last eight after overcoming DR Congo and Mexico in the knockout rounds, but Barry insists there is still another level for England to reach. Speaking before the team travelled to Miami, Barry said the coaching staff remain convinced the players have plenty left in reserve. “We believe that the petrol tank is full, the foot is on the gas and now maybe we just need to take the handbrake off,” Barry said . “There’s only 11 days left and now is the time to take the handbrake off and go all in.” Barry believes the pressure and significance of the latter stages of the tournament could help England finally produce the complete performance they have been searching for. “We think that the public and everyone has seen so many good faces of this team, but we still believe there’s some left to show,” he added. “If they click and become coherent, then it could be pretty exciting to watch.” The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich coach also dismissed suggestions that his increasingly popular half-time television interviews were designed to attract attention. Barry has earned praise throughout the tournament for his direct assessments during the interval, including describing England’s first-half display against Croatia as “complicated and confusing”. However, he insisted honesty is simply part of the job. “They’ve become popular, but that certainly wasn’t and isn’t the intent,” Barry explained. “I just answer the question as honestly as I can.” Barry also reaffirmed England’s ultimate ambition. “I think Thomas and I believed it from the day we took the job,” he said. “Since day one we’ve said we want to try and put the second star on the shirt.” Looking ahead to Norway, Barry warned against underestimating Stale Solbakken’s side despite England entering the match as favourites. He highlighted captain Martin Odegaard alongside striker Alexander Sørloth as two of Norway’s biggest threats while praising the team’s unity and organisation. “They’re physical, they’re strong and they’re together,” Barry said. “They work hard for each other and are very clear in their roles.” Barry also paid an emotional tribute to Jordan Henderson, who is set to miss the quarter-final through injury. Describing the veteran midfielder as “the full package”, Barry suggested Henderson possesses all the qualities required to become a top coach after retirement. England now face Norway knowing victory would secure a place in the World Cup semi-finals, and Barry believes the moment has arrived for Tuchel’s side to fully embrace the opportunity.