Bukayo Saka has insisted he is ready to “gamble” on his fitness for England’s World Cup chances, providing a huge boost to manager Thomas Tuchel.
Struggling with Achilles Issue
The Arsenal winger, set to win his 50th cap against Croatia in their Group opener on Wednesday, has been battling an Achilles problem. The issue forced him out of England’s March camp and required him to push through pain during Arsenal’s title run-in, casting doubt on his availability for the tournament. However, Saka is determined to start the match.
Saka, 24, said: “As players, it’s the biggest gamble, especially if you’re not feeling your sharpest. You have the choice whether you don’t play or you put yourself out there knowing people are going to judge you the same. I’m happy to take the gamble. It paid off, I’d say. I’m going to continue doing that. At the end of the day, people don’t really care how you’re feeling, they expect you to deliver. But I am feeling a lot better than I did in March and I’m ready to go.”
Confidence from Arsenal Success
Saka was instrumental in helping Arsenal win their first Premier League title in 22 years. He believes that winning feeling has boosted his confidence. “Knowing what it takes to win is important and it gives you more belief. It gives you more confidence and freedom. When you have that success and you taste it, you want to do it again, and you can go two ways, but when I speak for myself, I'd say it's definitely feeling that I want to do it again and it gives me even more hunger,” he said.
England boss Tuchel has indicated that Saka may not be able to start and finish every game, but the Arsenal winger is happy to share the role with club teammate Noni Madueke. Saka added: “Noni is like my brother and we enjoy competing and playing together. Not many players have done that, especially so young. So it's proud for me.”
With England’s World Cup campaign beginning against Croatia, Saka’s willingness to take a gamble on his fitness could prove decisive for the team’s hopes.
