Overview
- The England squad has been managing Bukayo Saka’s Achilles issue that began in March with careful load control by Arsenal and national medical teams.
- England manager Thomas Tuchel has publicly said Saka is unlikely to be able to both start and finish matches because he still cannot train on consecutive days.
- Saka told reporters on Monday that he is “feeling a lot better,” is “ready to go” and is willing to take the fitness risk to play in the opener.
- Tuchel has not confirmed his final XI for the opener and Noni Madueke is the leading alternative to start on the right wing if Saka is held back.
- The decision will shape England’s rotation in a compressed group schedule and Saka could reach his 50th cap during the tournament depending on how minutes are managed.