England has some fitness worries for a few key players before their World Cup game against Ghana.
England can secure their spot in the World Cup knockout stage if they beat Ghana in their next game, but they might be missing some of their key players. Thomas Tuchel’s team grabbed all three points with a 4-2 win over Croatia, thanks to two goals from Harry Kane and one each from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford.
It was a great performance from England, putting them in a strong position to finish top of their group. Still, Dietmar Hamann has doubts about Kane’s ability to lead the Three Lions all the way in the World Cup. A win against Ghana, who beat Panama in their first game, would likely secure England’s top spot.
However, fitness concerns might keep three star players out of the match, as Tuchel doesn’t want to risk them before the tougher games ahead. The former Chelsea boss said Bakayo Saka will probably start on the bench to protect his ongoing Achilles issue. Tuchel explained, “Bukayo is ready and getting stronger. He could play in the last group game if it’s a fast, open match.”
They’re also watching Declan Rice carefully after he left the Croatia game early, but Tuchel says it was just a precaution to keep him safe. Rashford might miss the next match too after feeling some muscle tightness, and Kane was wrapped up in strapping during training because of cramp.
England will keep preparing for the Ghana match at their base in Kansas City over the weekend before traveling to Boston next week for their second World Cup game.