Thomas Tuchel has revealed that Jarell Quansah has not been given an explanation by FIFA for his two-game suspension following his red card against Mexico in the World Cup round of 16.
Quansah was sent off after a VAR review for an ankle-high challenge on Jesus Gallardo, and while the standard ban is one match, it was upgraded to two games for 'serious foul play'. Tuchel had heavily criticized the match officials after the game, and now faces a quarter-final against Norway without the Liverpool defender.
Tuchel demands answers over extended ban
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the quarter-final in Miami, Tuchel was asked whether his post-match comments about the refereeing standards had influenced the disciplinary committee's decision to lengthen the suspension.
"I don't think so," he said. "We also have no explanation."
The England manager had been scathing after the victory at the Azteca, saying the officials were "just not good enough" and that the VAR interventions were inconsistent. Those remarks came amid wider scrutiny of FIFA, who had controversially suspended Folarin Balogun's one-game ban for a year after his red card for the USA, allowing him to play in their next match.
How the red card unfolded
The incident occurred early in the second half when Quansah caught Gallardo on the ankle. After an on-field review, the referee showed a straight red. FIFA's disciplinary code states that a sending-off for serious foul play carries a minimum two-match suspension, but Tuchel clearly feels the decision lacked transparency.
"We still have no explanation," he reiterated, suggesting that the FA have not received official communication from world football's governing body.
The Three Lions held on for a memorable 1-0 win despite playing over 40 minutes with ten men, with Tuchel praising the "spirit" of his side. He will need that same resolve against a Norway attack led by Erling Haaland.
Injury boost for Norway clash
While Quansah is suspended, Tuchel received positive news on the fitness of three key players. Declan Rice (illness), Marc Guehi (hamstring) and Reece James (hamstring) all trained on Friday and are available for selection.
"We had everyone available in training. That's the best news," Tuchel said. "We have the full choice except for our suspended player."
James' return is particularly timely as he offers cover at right-back, allowing Tuchel to keep his tactical flexibility against the Norwegians. The quarter-final is set to be a stern test of England's World Cup credentials.
Quick Facts
Who is suspended? Jarell Quansah (England), two-match ban
Why? Straight red card upgraded for serious foul play
Who returns? Declan Rice, Marc Guehi, Reece James all trained
Up next: England vs Norway – World Cup quarter-final, Saturday night
Key Takeaways
- Thomas Tuchel says FIFA have not explained why Jarell Quansah's ban was extended to two games.
- Quansah's red card against Mexico was upgraded from the standard one-game suspension for serious foul play.
- Tuchel's criticism of referees post-match has not been cited as a reason for the longer ban.
- Declan Rice, Marc Guehi and Reece James are fit and available for the Norway quarter-final.
- England face a confident Norway side eyeing a first World Cup semi-final.
Source: Sky Sports
