‘They’re men, not robots’: Turkey coach tells critics to get off players’ backs

Turkey coach Vincenzo Montella said on Thursday harsh criticism following his side’s opening World Cup defeat by Australia had been demoralising for his younger players, and they deserved more support as they prepare for a potentially critical match against Paraguay.

Widely backed before the tournament to challenge the United States for top spot in Group D, Turkey were upset 2-0 by the Socceroos and another loss to Paraguay at the San Francisco Bay Area stadium on Friday could leave their...