England kickstart their World Cup group campaign in one week when they square off with Croatia in Dallas, Texas
Arsenal’s England international stars already look key to the Three Lions’ chances of World Cup glory in North America. However, one week out from the tournament, question marks have been raised over Bukayo Saka’s fitness.
The Gunners winger withdrew from England’s March camp and it’s understood he’s been managing Achilles tendinitis carefully since then.
Thomas Tuchel has since made it clear that Saka is not “100 per cent” and will not be able to play every minute of the World Cup.
This means big opportunities could well follow for Saka’s Arsenal understudy Noni Madueke, starting from the group stages.
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While there is no question Saka will start if fit, Madueke should now be chomping at the bit because he looks set for considerable minutes from the bench – at the very least.
His early-season form, particularly in the 5-0 demolition of Serbia in Belgrade last September, seems to be what put him ahead of the likes of Jarrod Bowen in Tuchel’s mind.
Madueke lacks consistency but on his day, he has the ability to cause problems just as he did against Nuno Mendes in the Champions League final.
The exclusion of Cole Palmer and Phil Foden also means he’s virtually the only alternative option to Saka on the right flank. That was recently underlined against New Zealand when Rio Ngumoha enjoyed a bright cameo on the flank.
Former Chelsea ace Madueke has been putting in the work with extra sessions in Miami alongside Eberechi Eze as England work towards their Group L clash with Croatia.
Much has been made of Tuchel’s squad and the raft of talent omitted from his ranks but Madueke is now set to receive the opportunity to win over his critics.
His attributes and ability to drive at opposition defences could prove handy in the sweltering heat against tired legs and he did still net eight goals and register four assists last season.
The notion amongst sceptics that Madueke is not fit for purpose at international level is harsh and it’s clear Tuchel has huge confidence in him to be a major asset in attack.
His contributions will also be key to preserving and improving Saka’s fitness because if England are to go deep in the tournament, they will need both firing on all cylinders.
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