Bukayo Saka has trained with the England squad on Sunday, providing a timely fitness lift for manager Thomas Tuchel before Tuesday's World Cup encounter against Ghana.
Training Update
After sitting out full training on Saturday, Saka participated in England's penultimate session at their Kansas City base, according to Sami Mokbel of BBC Sport. The Arsenal winger had been limited to individual work a day earlier, but his involvement on Sunday suggests he is on track to play some part against Ghana.
Managing the Injury
Saka has been dealing with an Achilles tendinitis issue that saw him start on the bench in England's opening 4-2 victory over Croatia. The 24-year-old is a crucial part of Tuchel's plans, but the manager has indicated he will not be rushed back.
"Saka is unlikely to be in contention to start until the third group game versus Panama," Tuchel said recently.
Despite concerns, the problem has not worsened since the end of the domestic season, when Saka helped Arsenal secure their first Premier League title in 22 years. The England medical team is managing the issue carefully to ensure the winger is available for the latter stages of the tournament.
What It Means for England
With Bukayo Saka building fitness, Tuchel has more options as England look to secure qualification to the knockout rounds. The FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign continues on Tuesday against Ghana at Gillette Stadium in Boston, where a win would all but guarantee progress from Group F.
Saka's availability, even from the bench, would be a significant boost given his ability to change games. The Arsenal star scored 14 goals in the Premier League last season and is widely regarded as one of England's most dynamic attackers.
Key Takeaways
- Bukayo Saka trained fully with England on Sunday after doing individual work on Saturday.
- He is nursing an Achilles tendinitis but the issue has not deteriorated.
- Thomas Tuchel has said Saka is unlikely to start until the third group game against Panama.
- England face Ghana on Tuesday in their second Group F match at the World Cup.
- Saka's fitness provides a timely boost for England as they aim to secure knockout qualification.
Quick Facts
Player: Bukayo Saka
Injury: Achilles tendinitis
Match: England vs Ghana, World Cup Group F
Date: Tuesday, 23 June 2026
Venue: Gillette Stadium, Boston
Source: BBC Sport