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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
David Hytner

Red, white and shoe: England and Tuchel have world at their feet with fresh focus

Thomas Tuchel gives instructions during England’s final training session before their World Cup qualifier against Serbia at Wembley.
Thomas Tuchel gives instructions during England’s final training session before their World Cup qualifier against Serbia at Wembley. Photograph: David Rogers/Getty Images

It was certainly a strong look, impossible to ignore, something only a top‑level footballer could carry off – and even then, the jury was out. When Ezri Konsa strolled in to preview Thursday’s World Cup qualifier against Serbia at Wembley, the England defender did so in what, at first glance, appeared to be a cross between a pair of slippers and oversized Crocs. In garish, fluorescent red.

On closer inspection, it was possible to make out grooves and nodules on them, and then it was time for the science part. Apparently, if you wear these your concentration improves. Well, that is according to the manufacturer. Something to do with the pressure points on the foot, perhaps. Was Konsa convinced? Unclear. How about Thomas Tuchel? Ditto.

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