Tuchel confirms Saka injury boost ahead of Ghana clash

Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Bukayo Saka is pain free in his achilles after months of struggling.

Saka’s fitness in recent weeks has been managed by England and his club Arsenal, with the forward not taking part fully in training on Saturday.

However the 24-year-old was able to train in both Sunday and Monday’s sessions ahead of the Three Lions’ second World Cup group game against Ghana, with Tuchel confirming the winger is no longer in pain.

“It is another big thing on the right wing between Noni Madueke and Bukayo Saka, and the beautiful thing is they do it for Arsenal as well,” he said.

“He [Saka] feels no more pain. He was able to train in full [on Sunday and Monday]. Bukayo is getting better and better, feels no more pain, and is ready to go — without telling you if he starts or comes from the bench.”

The German also spoke on his lack of approval for hydration breaks, but understands the “point of fairness” surrounding them.

“It changes the identity of the football match much more than I thought. It breaks the match almost in four quarters. I like it as a coach to have influence. But in one (unbroken) half it builds a momentum and a battle on the field between the teams.

“It (an unbroken half) adds to the characteristic of the beautiful game.”

Victory for England would secure them top spot in Group L.