​England assistant manager Anthony Barry believes the Three Lions have not yet shown their best football at the World Cup and has urged the squad to “take the handbrake off” ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final against Norway. After Thomas Tuchel’s side reached the last eight by overcoming DR Congo and Mexico in the knockout rounds, Barry argues there is still another level England can reach. Speaking before the team traveled to Miami, the coaching staff remained convinced that the players have plenty left in reserve. “We believe that the petrol tank is full, the foot is on the gas and now maybe we just need to take the handbrake off,” Barry said. “There are only 11 days left and now is the time to take the handbrake off and go all in.” Barry contends that the pressure and significance of the late stages of the tournament could help England finally deliver the complete performance they have been seeking. “We think that the public and everyone has seen so many good faces of this team, but we still believe there’s some left to show,” he added. “If they click and become coherent, then it could be pretty exciting to watch.”
The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich coach has also dismissed suggestions that his increasingly popular half-time TV interviews are designed merely to attract attention. Barry has earned praise during the tournament for his frank assessments at the interval, including describing England’s first-half performance against Croatia as “complicated and confusing.” Yet he insists honesty is simply part of the job. “They’ve become popular, but that certainly wasn’t and isn’t the intent,” Barry explained. “I just answer the question as honestly as I can.”
Barry reaffirmed England’s ultimate goal. “I think Thomas and I believed it from the day we took the job,” he said. “Since day one we’ve said we want to try and put the second star on the shirt.” Looking ahead to Norway, Barry warned against underestimating Stale Solbakken’s side despite England entering the match as favourites. He highlighted captain Martin Odegaard and striker Alexander Sørloth as two of Norway’s biggest threats, while praising the team’s unity and organisation. “They’re physical, they’re strong and they’re together,” Barry said. “They work hard for each other and are very clear in their roles.”
Barry also paid an emotional tribute to Jordan Henderson, who will miss the quarter-final through injury. Describing the veteran midfielder as “the full package,” Barry suggested Henderson possesses all the qualities required to become a top coach after retirement. England now face Norway knowing victory would secure a place in the World Cup semi-finals, and Barry believes the moment has arrived for Tuchel’s side to seize it. With better performances on the horizon, the team aims to showcase their best football at the business end of the tournament.