Overview
- Thomas Tuchel said on Wednesday that Bukayo Saka is 'more and more ready' in training and could start against Panama on Saturday if his recovery continues.
- Saka has been used as a second-half substitute in England's first two Group L matches and supplied the assist for Marcus Rashford in the 4-2 win over Croatia.
- Tuchel warned that Saka cannot be expected to solve England's attacking problems alone and that the 0-0 draw with Ghana makes him less likely to carry out a full squad rotation.
- Pundits and fans have urged Tuchel to start Saka, with Sky Sports presenter Pete Gill among those publicly pushing for him to be picked alongside Marcus Rashford.
- Arsenal and England medical staff have managed Saka's long-running Achilles tendinitis through load control, which means his minutes will be limited to reduce the risk of recurrence and shape selection plans.