England have been handed a fresh injury scare ahead of their World Cup group stage clash with Ghana on Tuesday, as Marcus Rashford has emerged as a slight concern. The 28-year-old Manchester United winger scored off the bench in England's opening 4-2 win over Croatia in Dallas, but subsequently experienced muscle discomfort and missed the team's practice game against Sporting Kansas City on Thursday.
Rashford's Condition Being Monitored
It is hoped that Rashford's issue is no more than a minor niggle, but he will likely undergo further checks as England ramp up preparations for the match in Boston. Rashford is one of several players whose fitness is being closely monitored following the win over Croatia.
Kane and Rice Also Under Observation
Captain Harry Kane was seen with strapping on his left calf, though that is said to be related to cramp rather than an injury. Declan Rice was seen limping after being substituted midway through the first game, but he was quick to allay fears. 'All good, good as gold,' Rice told ITV. 'Just what I've been nursing probably in the second half of the season, little neural pains here and there, but I'm all good. All fine, just precaution and I'll be back out there against Ghana.'
England manager Thomas Tuchel also commented on Rice's withdrawal: 'Declan pointed to his lower back, upper hamstring and feels some discomfort. I didn't want to take any risks. It was a moment to protect him. I hope it's nothing more. Declan reassured me at the end it's good. It's nothing big to worry about.'
Saka Nearing Full Fitness
Bukayo Saka, who started on the bench against Croatia, is still dealing with an ongoing Achilles issue. Tuchel conceded that the Arsenal winger may have to wait until England's final group game for his first start of the tournament. 'Bukayo is ready and will get more and more ready,' Tuchel said. 'I think once we go to the last game of this group he will be ready. He was strong in training yesterday in small spaces. It was just a matter of if the game was open and was up and down.'
