Gary Neville has voiced serious concerns about Bukayo Saka's fitness and form ahead of England's World Cup knockout match against DR Congo, suggesting the Arsenal winger 'doesn't look right at all'. The former Manchester United defender fears that England manager Thomas Tuchel may need to consider dropping one of his most reliable attacking players due to a long-standing Achilles issue.
England's Group Stage Success and Fitness Worries
England qualified for the knockout stages with seven points from three Group L matches, ending their campaign with a 2-0 win over Panama. However, fitness concerns over key players are mounting. Midfielder Declan Rice was rested for the Panama game, while Reece James is not expected back until the quarter-finals as the team manages his hamstring strain.
Saka's Struggles Continue
Saka made his first start of the tournament against Panama after two substitute appearances against Croatia and Ghana. He struggled to make an impact and was described as 'arrogant and ignorant' by former Watford striker Troy Deeney. His form for England has mirrored his performances for Arsenal over recent months, including a subdued display in the Champions League final against PSG.
'Bukayo Saka doesn't look right at all,' Neville said. 'He's usually the boy that's bubbling and smiling, he's got that competitive edge to him, but he's not right and that's a concern to us I think.'
Wright Questions Saka's Readiness
Ian Wright echoed Neville's sentiments, questioning whether Saka has been 'rushed back' for the World Cup. 'We're going into a World Cup, and still not starting the first few games, only starting when we're three games in, and still isn't looking like the Saka that we know – this guy needs a break,' Wright said.
Wright also expressed broader concerns about England's wingers: 'I can't remember too many tournaments where you're feeling like you're on the edge, I feel like that's normal. But there are a lot of people [in the England squad] who are not up to speed. Our wingers, and the way we depend on the wingers are not doing well enough.'
Other Winger Options Underwhelm
Tuchel's other wide options, including Noni Madueke, Marcus Rashford, and Anthony Gordon, have made limited impacts so far. Roy Keane added: 'The wingers need to grab their opportunity. These players [wingers] haven't quite grabbed their opportunity yet. In the group games, you can maybe slip up in one of them, but now at least one of them has to start turning up.'
