Bukayo Saka returns to full England training as Thomas Tuchel outlines World Cup injury management plan

England have received a major fitness boost ahead of their second World Cup group-stage fixture after Bukayo Saka returned to full training.

The Arsenal winger had been carefully managed following the Achilles issue that troubled him during the closing stages of the Premier League season, but Thomas Tuchel has now confirmed the attacker is progressing well as the Three Lions prepare for their clash with Ghana.

Saka back with the squad

Saka participated fully in England’s latest training session in Foxborough, Massachusetts, after spending part of the previous day working individually.

The 24-year-old was restricted to a brief substitute appearance during England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia, with Tuchel opting not to risk one of his most important attacking players in the tournament opener.

His return to full group training provides a significant boost for England as they look to build on their winning start in Group L.

Tuchel explains cautious approach

While Saka’s condition has improved, Tuchel insists England will continue to manage his workload carefully throughout the tournament.

The England manager highlighted the importance of protecting key players carrying minor fitness concerns, particularly with the knockout stages on the horizon.

“I’m not in the physio department, but he hasn’t missed a day of training, so I think that’s a good thing,” Tuchel said.

“He’s played so many games throughout these last few years. You can see he’s a crucial player for Arsenal. He’s a top-quality player and he brings quality to the pitch, for Arsenal and England.

“I think he’s very important, as everyone can see. Managing niggles going into a competition is very important for the latter stages. You need important players like him to be ready to play and step up when called upon.”

England prioritising long-term fitness

England’s medical and coaching staff have implemented a carefully structured load-management programme designed to ensure Saka remains available deep into the competition.

That strategy was evident against Croatia when Noni Madueke was selected in the starting XI, allowing Saka to be introduced later in the match once the intensity had dropped.

Rather than rushing the Arsenal star back into a starting role, England appear determined to build his minutes gradually.

Ghana clash comes at crucial moment

England face Ghana next in what could prove to be a decisive Group L encounter.

Both nations opened their World Cup campaigns with victories, setting up a potentially pivotal showdown that could determine who finishes top of the group.

While Saka’s availability is a major positive, Tuchel is unlikely to abandon the cautious approach that has guided the winger’s recovery so far.

Reports suggest the England boss may continue to limit Saka’s minutes against Ghana, with a full starting return potentially targeted for the final group-stage fixture against Panama on June 27.

For now, England’s priority remains clear: keeping one of their most influential players healthy and ready for the biggest matches still to come.