Thomas Tuchel bites back at Donald Trump's jibes over England tactics at World Cup

Thomas Tuchel has firmly rejected suggestions that his tactical decisions cost England a place in the World Cup final, defending his approach during Friday's press conference ahead of the third-place playoff against France.

When questioned about Kane operating in deeper positions after England took the lead, the German coach was dismissive.

"In which situation did Harry play too deep? What do you mean? Like in the last 30 minutes?" Tuchel responded. "Well, we defended in a deep block. That's what you do if you defend in a block.

"Do you use Donald Trump as your witness?"

He emphasised the collective nature of defensive duties, stating: "We defend as a 10 and as 11, and if we are pushed back to a deep block, Harry defends in a deep block."

Tuchel conceded England "became too passive in the last 30 minutes" and struggled to retain possession, but maintained his substitutions were made to assist the team.

The US President waded into the debate surrounding England's semi-final exit during a FIFA reception at Trump Tower in New York on Friday, with Gianni Infantino standing alongside him.

Trump referenced his personal connection to the England captain, recalling their round of golf together in West Palm Beach approximately 18 months ago.

"You have a great player in England, who I played golf with, Harry," Trump remarked. "They perhaps made a mistake when they made him a defensive player. What do I know about soccer?"

He continued: "They took the lead, and they took their best player, and they put him on defence. We got to be a little offensive, right? What do I know about coaching?"

The FIFA president nodded in agreement and applauded Trump's observations.

England's World Cup dream unravelled in devastating fashion on Wednesday evening in Atlanta, with the Three Lions squandering a lead that had put them within touching distance of their first final since 1966.

Anthony Gordon, who has since completed a move to Barcelona, broke the deadlock in the 55th minute to give Tuchel's side the advantage.

However, Argentina's talisman Lionel Messi proved decisive in the closing stages, orchestrating the comeback that sent the defending champions through.

The Paris Saint-Germain legend provided the assist for Enzo Fernandez's equaliser in the 85th minute.

Messi then delivered another pinpoint cross in stoppage time, which Lautaro Martínez headed beyond Jordan Pickford to complete the turnaround.

Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday's final.

Tuchel's substitutions during the final half-hour drew particular scrutiny from supporters and pundits alike.

The England manager withdrew Anthony Gordon and Declan Rice, bringing on defenders Ezri Konsa and Nico O'Reilly as the team shifted to a back five formation.

By the match's conclusion, six recognised defenders were on the pitch for the Three Lions.

The conservative approach backfired spectacularly, with England managing a mere 12 per cent of possession between Gordon's opener and Fernández's leveller.

Tuchel's side found themselves pinned inside their own half, unable to relieve pressure or create attacking opportunities.

Despite the widespread criticism, the Football Association has publicly backed the German coach, who extended his contract through 2028 prior to the tournament.