With a place in the World Cup semi-finals on the line, England assistant manager Anthony Barry has opened up about the mood in the camp, the challenge of Norway, and his own remarkable journey from non-league football to the global stage. Speaking exclusively to BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast, Barry joined senior football reporter Ian Dennis to preview Saturday's quarter-final in Miami.
Quansah's Absence and England's Resilience
One of the immediate talking points was the two-match suspension of centre-back Jarell Quansah, following his red card in the dramatic 3-2 win over Mexico. Barry acknowledged the blow but stressed the squad's depth and collective spirit.
"Jarell is a massive player for us, and he's obviously disappointed, but this group has shown time and again that we can adapt and overcome setbacks. We have full faith in whoever steps in," Barry told the programme.
The assistant coach pointed to the character England displayed after going down to ten men at the Azteca, calling it a defining moment that has only strengthened the team's belief.
A Journey From Accrington to the World Stage
Barry's own story is one of perseverance. Twenty years ago this summer, he was helping Accrington Stanley win the National League title – a milestone that set him on a path which now sees him plotting England's path to World Cup glory.
"It's surreal when you think about it. Those experiences at Accrington taught me so much about resilience and togetherness – qualities you need in a tournament like this."
That grounding, he says, is reflected in the current England squad's mindset as they target a first World Cup triumph since 1966.
The Tuchel-Barry Dynamic
Much has been made of the partnership between head coach Thomas Tuchel and his No. 2, with Barry providing a bridge between the German's tactical demands and the players. He described their relationship as "a constant dialogue built on trust and shared obsession with detail."
"Thomas empowers me to have my say every single day. We challenge each other, but we always leave the meeting room with a clear plan. That honesty filters down to the squad."
Barry also highlighted the "brotherhood" within the group, insisting the togetherness on display in the Mexico match was not a one-off but part of a long-built culture.
Facing Norway and the Haaland Threat
Stopping Erling Haaland will be central to England's chances. Norway's talisman has already scored four goals in the tournament, and Barry was full of admiration for the striker – but warned against focusing solely on him.
"They are much more than one player. Their system has clear patterns, they press intelligently and have quality across the pitch. We have to impose our game, not just try to stop Haaland."
He compared Norway's tactical evolution to England's own under Tuchel, noting their ability to absorb pressure and transition quickly – qualities that saw them stun Brazil in the last 16.
Daring to Dream
With the finish line in sight, Barry was asked if the camp is beginning to dream of lifting the trophy. His answer was measured but unmistakably confident.
"We're exactly where we want to be. The focus is only on Norway, but when you have this level of talent and a group this committed, you can't help but think about what's possible."
England face Norway at Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday, with a semi-final against either Argentina or Netherlands awaiting the victor.
Key Takeaways
- Anthony Barry expressed confidence in England's ability to cope without the suspended Jarell Quansah, citing squad depth.
- The assistant manager praised Thomas Tuchel's leadership, describing their dynamic as one of "trust and shared obsession."
- Barry reflected on his non-league roots with Accrington Stanley two decades ago, linking those lessons to England's current resilience.
- He warned that Norway offer more than just Erling Haaland and stressed that England must impose their own game.
- Despite the focus on the quarter-final, Barry admitted the squad is quietly thinking about going all the way.
Quick Facts
Interview: Anthony Barry on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily (11 minutes, 10 July 2026)
Fixture: England vs Norway, 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final
Date/Venue: Saturday, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami
Suspension: Jarell Quansah misses two matches after red card vs Mexico
Barry's roots: Won National League with Accrington Stanley in 2006