Marcus Rashford and Declan Rice have given England a significant boost by participating fully in training ahead of Tuesday's World Cup group match against Ghana. However, Bukayo Saka is expected to start on the bench again as he continues his recovery from an achilles issue.
Tuchel Confirms Saka's Limited Minutes
England manager Thomas Tuchel revealed that Saka is managing an achilles problem and is not yet ready to play a full 90 minutes. The winger came off the bench in England's opening 4-2 win over Croatia in Dallas on Wednesday, and the coaching staff remain cautious with his workload.
On Saturday, Saka stayed indoors at England's training base in Kansas City to follow an individual programme, indicating that Noni Madueke is likely to retain his starting spot on the right wing against Ghana in Boston.
Injury Concerns Alleviated
England entered the tournament with minor injury concerns after the Croatia match. Rashford, who scored the fourth goal after coming on as a substitute, reported a minor muscular problem. Rice, England's vice-captain, was substituted in the 72nd minute after feeling discomfort in his lower back and upper hamstring.
However, after a day off on Friday, both players returned to training in good shape. Rashford, competing with Anthony Gordon for a place on the left flank, moved freely during passing drills, while Rice also appeared untroubled as Tuchel put the squad through their paces.
Bellingham Reflects on England Journey
Jude Bellingham, who scored England's third goal against Croatia, spoke about his growing role with the national team. In an interview with FIFA, the 22-year-old said: "My responsibility to my team and to my country is to give everything I have. It's been a gradual process into being where I am with the England squad."
Bellingham added: "I wore the captain's armband for the first time in the friendlies which means I'm on a good path and I know I can contribute whether it be from the starting XI, from the bench, I understand other players deserve to play as well. But I think I'm more than ready to give the team minutes."
Anthem Inspires Bellingham
The Real Madrid midfielder also shared the personal significance of the national anthem. Speaking to BBC Sport, he said: "I think the anthem is the last chance you get to really be mindful of the people who have got you there and what it means to be from England."
Bellingham continued: "I think about my grandad, who passed away just before my England debut. He was so patriotic. He was an Englishman through and through. He could give you every fact about every war, every battle, every king, and every queen."
He also acknowledged his family's sacrifices: "I also think about the rest of my family and the sacrifices they've made to get me to this stage. My mum, my dad and my brother, Jobe, have all been so important for me. My brother has been a constant crutch for me."
