Thomas Tuchel set to bench Bukayo Saka again for England's clash with Ghana
Thomas Tuchel has indicated Bukayo Saka will likely remain a substitute for England's World Cup match against Ghana to manage his fitness.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0 / Author: Hossein Zohrevand
England head coach Thomas Tuchel is continuing a cautious approach to Bukayo Saka's involvement in the early stages of the World Cup. Despite the 24-year-old providing an immediate assist for Marcus Rashford off the bench in the opening victory against Croatia, the coaching staff remains committed to nursing the winger through the tournament.
Tuchel has made it clear that his focus is on ensuring the Arsenal star is at his physical peak when the knockout rounds arrive:
Bukayo is ready and will get more and more ready. I think once we go to the last game of this group he will be ready. Thomas Tuchel
This management style stands in contrast to the internal approach typically favored by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta. Medical assessments have confirmed that Saka's Achilles tendinitis has not deteriorated since the club season, yet Tuchel is unwilling to gamble on his long-term condition during the group phase.
England's significant attacking depth allows for this luxury, with Noni Madueke expected to continue on the right flank. The squad's high performance levels were further evidenced by Ivan Toney's recent hat-trick in a closed-doors friendly. England will look to secure their place in the round of 32 on Tuesday when they face a disciplined Ghana side at Boston Stadium.