England manager Thomas Tuchel has issued a warning to his squad ahead of their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Serbia, stating that they must be prepared for a significant challenge. Tuchel's comments come before Tuesday's match in Belgrade, a game he anticipates will be a tough test for his team.

Tuchel highlighted the hostile atmosphere they are likely to face at the Rajko Mitic Stadium, emphasizing the need for the players to adapt to the adversity and overcome it. He anticipates an emotional crowd and has urged his team to be ready for anything, including a potentially difficult pitch and the possibility of red or yellow cards. "We have to adapt to the adversity, overcome adversity, and then let's see what the pitch is like, let's see how the game plays out because you never know," Tuchel said. "You can have red cards, yellow cards, whatever, so we need to be ready for everything".

England faced Serbia in their opening game of Euro 2024, securing a narrow 1-0 victory courtesy of a Jude Bellingham header. Tuchel is mindful of the physical and emotional challenge that Serbia will pose, particularly in front of their home crowd. He believes that this match will be a crucial test for his team's progress in Group K. "It will be a good test and we're looking forward to it," said Tuchel. "We feel that we are ready to step up to the atmosphere, to the physicality and it will be an emotional game, it will be a very important game in the group".

There are concerns about Marc Guehi's fitness for the game against Serbia. Guehi reported a groin issue during England's 2-0 win over Andorra, making him a doubt for the upcoming match.

Tuchel has also spoken about his willingness to embrace a more direct approach to England's play, including the use of long throws and long balls. He mentioned that these "old-fashioned qualities" are making a comeback and could be valuable assets, particularly in major tournaments like the World Cup. He noted England's goals against Andorra both originated from crosses. "I tell you the long throw-in is back, as well," Tuchel said. "Once we arrive at the World Cup, all these things matter so we will also talk about long throw-ins, we will talk about long kicks from the goalkeeper and not only playing short".

Tuchel has hinted that Elliot Anderson could start against Serbia, impressed by his debut in the match against Andorra. Anderson's physicality and passing ability have positioned him as a potential solution in midfield. "I think he has the physicality and he has the mindset to play in more difficult games," said Tuchel. "And for this performance, he is clearly in the mix to play in Serbia".

England currently leads Group K, five points ahead of Serbia, though Serbia has a game in hand. Tuchel is aiming to lead England to their first major men's international trophy since the 1966 World Cup.