Bukayo Saka has rejoined full England training after initial worries about the Achilles problem that hampered the end of his campaign with Arsenal. Head coach Thomas Tuchel is maintaining a cautious stance regarding the winger’s workload, as England aim to keep one of their most influential attacking players fit and fresh for the latter stages of the World Cup.

Saka back in full training ahead of Ghana encounter

England received a significant fitness boost on Sunday when Saka returned to full group training in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The Arsenal forward had trained separately the previous day while the Three Lions’ medical team closely monitored the Achilles issue that had troubled him during the closing months of the Premier League season.

Although Saka featured only for 18 minutes as a substitute in England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas, he appeared sharp and comfortable in the latest session. His full return gives Tuchel more tactical flexibility before England’s second Group L match at Boston Stadium.

Tuchel outlines England’s careful plan

Tuchel reiterated that England are adopting a deliberate approach to Saka’s recovery as the World Cup unfolds. He highlighted how crucial it is to manage minor fitness concerns during a long and intense tournament.

“I’m not part of the physio team, but he hasn’t missed a single training session, which is a positive sign,” Tuchel said, as quoted by ESPN. “He’s played a huge number of matches over the past few seasons. You can clearly see he’s vital for Arsenal. He’s a top-class player who delivers quality for both Arsenal and England.”

“He’s extremely important, as everyone can see. Managing small issues before and during a competition is essential for success in the later rounds. You need players of his calibre ready to perform when the moment demands it.”

England plan for long-term fitness

England’s coaching and medical team are prioritising Saka’s fitness through a strict load-management programme, ensuring he peaks at the right stage of the tournament. That approach was visible in the Croatia match, where Noni Madueke started on the right flank and Saka was brought on only after the result was effectively secured. Reports suggest Tuchel does not expect the 24-year-old to start a full match until England’s final group stage fixture against Panama on June 27.

Gradual progress remains the focus

England’s next challenge comes against Ghana before they head to New Jersey for their concluding Group L clash. With three points already secured, Tuchel’s team are well-positioned to manage key players carefully without taking unnecessary risks. The emphasis now is on ensuring Saka’s steady recovery continues. If his progress stays on course, England anticipate he will be fully fit to make a decisive impact in the knockout stages and any potential deep run into the tournament.