England captain Harry Kane downplayed any controversy following coach Thomas Tuchel’s remarks after teammate Jude Bellingham took offense to the manager’s critique of England’s “sloppy” 2-1 victory over Norway.

Speaking before the highly anticipated World Cup semifinal against Argentina in Atlanta, Kane criticized reports of discord within England’s team. He accused the media of attempting to drive a wedge among the Three Lions.

“When you’re playing a game like that and get asked a question five minutes after the final whistle, and he didn’t really know what had been said, what do you want Jude to say?” Kane responded, as reported by BBC Sport.

England’s taxing 2-1 win in extra time against Norway took place in the intense Miami heat. Jude Bellingham emerged as the hero, scoring both of England’s goals, including a dramatic winner in the 93rd minute.

Moments after the match, Tuchel offered a stern critique on live television. “The result is fantastic. We’re in the last four… but not happy with the performance, in every sense,” Tuchel expressed.

“Sloppy, a lot of technical mistakes, not fast enough… We were lucky today.” – Thomas Tuchel

Bellingham, the 23-year-old talent, responded, “Yeah, well, whatever,” adding, “Maybe he doesn’t know what it’s like to play in those conditions against Erling Haaland, Odegaard… That’s not an easy team to play against.”

The exchange made headlines, but Kane strongly supported his teammate, criticizing the media’s attempts to fabricate conflict. “I think it’s easy to try and create this division,” Kane remarked. “It seems like an English mentality, an English thing to do at these major tournaments, but it’s the complete opposite.”

Instead of opposing Tuchel’s public assessment, Kane endorsed the coach’s passion. “He wears his heart on his sleeve and people appreciate that,” Kane mentioned. “When he talks, it is never scripted. That is what makes him who he is. When it just comes naturally, you believe in that.”

Kane added, “The group is where we are because of our complete togetherness, not just the players, the coach and the staff. Things sometimes get made out to be more than they are.”

England will aim to put the focus back on the field with their match against Argentina for a chance to reach the World Cup final.