Thomas Tuchel respond to Viagra claims ahead of Mexico match as 'exception' granted
England head coach Thomas Tuchel has dismissed the suggestion that the Three Lions could use Viagra to help them deal with the altitude against Mexico ahead of their World Cup round of 16 clash at the Azteca Stadium.
The match takes place at the iconic Mexican venue, which sits 2,200 metres above sea level. The challenging altitude has been cited as a significant factor that could impact England's performance, with the sexual enhancement drug suggested as a potential tool to combat the nauseating effects of the thin air in Mexico City.
However, Tuchel has downplayed the proposal that his squad would resort to such measures. When asked about the claims, the former Chelsea manager firmly stated: "The information and the support didn't reach me. That is not true."
Former Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson made light of the suggestion during discussions about how the team has been managing the increased altitude. The 36-year-old quipped: "Well the Viagra helps. I'm joking, it's a joke."
Viagra was originally created as a treatment for high blood pressure but has since become widely known as a remedy for erectile dysfunction. The medication works by expanding blood vessels in the lungs and preventing an enzyme from constricting them, which proves vital at elevated altitudes. At greater heights such as those England will experience in Mexico City, the atmosphere becomes more sparse, meaning less oxygen is available with each breath. This causes pulse rates and respiration to quicken, which accelerates exhaustion, dehydration and oxygen deficiency in the blood.
A report from the Sun indicated that England players would be permitted to use Viagra, as the medication does not appear on the World Anti-Doping Agency's banned substances list. This means the Three Lions stars could technically take the supplement to enhance their performance at altitude. However, the England squad has completely rubbished the idea, with Tuchel's dismissal making clear that the team will not be pursuing this approach ahead of their crucial knockout fixture.