Saka unlikely to start against Ghana, Tuchel says

England winger Bukayo Saka is unlikely to be in the starting lineup for Tuesday's World Cup match against Ghana, head coach Thomas Tuchel has indicated. Saka, who has been managing an Achilles tendinitis issue, came off the bench in England's 4-2 victory over Croatia on Wednesday and immediately provided an assist to fellow substitute Marcus Rashford for England's fourth goal.

Tuchel's management plan

Before the tournament, Tuchel stated that Saka would require careful management during the opening stages due to the Achilles issue. On Monday, Saka insisted he was ready to play and prepared to "gamble" on his fitness to help the team. However, Tuchel said the Arsenal attacker is unlikely to start until the final group game against Panama in New Jersey on 27 June.

"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."

Background on Saka's condition

Saka has been carrying the Achilles issue for some time. While there was concern behind the scenes at Arsenal about the niggle, the club deemed their forward fit enough to start regularly during their triumphant title run-in. It is understood that Saka's ongoing Achilles issue has not deteriorated since the climax of the domestic season.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who is often guarded regarding his players' injury concerns, has generally kept information about Saka's condition in-house. Tuchel's admission that the 24-year-old must be managed through at least part of the World Cup has thrust the winger's fitness into the spotlight.

Potential impact

Tuchel's latest comments suggest he is protecting Saka, knowing the attacker will likely be a crucial asset during the latter stages of the tournament. However, Tuchel also indicated that Saka could start against Ghana if required, leaving the door open for a possible change in plans.