Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Bukayo Saka will play a role in the latter stages of England's World Cup round of 32 match against DR Congo, after naming the Arsenal winger on the substitutes' bench for the clash in Atlanta. The England boss made three changes to the starting lineup that secured a 2-0 victory over Panama on Sunday, which clinched top spot in Group L.
Tuchel's Tactical Decisions
Declan Rice returns to the midfield after being rested, replacing Morgan Rogers. Saka, who is still regaining full fitness following an Achilles injury, makes way for his Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke on the right wing. Saka started the Panama match and provided an assist for Jude Bellingham's opening goal. However, Tuchel insisted that the decision to start Madueke was not a reflection of Saka's fitness.
“It tells you that Bukayo will finish the match for us,” Tuchel told the BBC before kick-off. The other change was enforced: Jarell Quansah misses out due to an ankle injury sustained against Panama, leaving England short of options at right-back as Reece James is also absent. Tottenham's Djed Spence, who started at left-back against Ghana, steps into the starting XI.
Defensive Stability
When asked if the changes were made to avoid disruption in the back line, Tuchel responded: “No, the central defenders stay, Nico [O’Reilly] played three of the four matches, so it’s not a problem. Djed has had minutes in every match, so no problem at all.”
