Bukayo Saka's Training Absence Raises Questions Ahead of World Cup Match Against Ghana

England winger Bukayo Saka missed a training session ahead of the World Cup clash against Ghana due to an Achilles injury. Coach Thomas Tuchel emphasizes careful management of Saka's workload. Despite the injury, Saka made a notable impact in England's opening match against Croatia. Captain Harry Kane draws inspiration from other players' performances and highlights the team's excitement for a potentially memorable summer. As England leads Group L, the upcoming match against Ghana is crucial for their campaign. Discover more about Saka's situation and the team's dynamics as they prepare for the next challenge.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 21, 2026, 01:13 IST

Saka's Injury Management Ahead of World Cup Clash

Massachusetts [UK], June 21: England winger Bukayo Saka was absent from Friday's training session as his team prepares for their World Cup match against Ghana. The Football Association has confirmed that he is undergoing an individual training program to manage an ongoing Achilles injury.

Saka has been grappling with this issue since March, and England's coach, Thomas Tuchel, has stressed the need for careful management of the 24-year-old's workload during the tournament.

Reports indicate that Saka did not participate in the training held at England's base in Kansas City. However, the FA has not suggested that his availability for Tuesday's Group L match is in jeopardy.

In England's opening match, Saka made a significant impact after coming off the bench, assisting Marcus Rashford in their 4-2 victory over Croatia, marking a strong start to their World Cup journey.

Despite his injury, the Arsenal forward expressed his willingness to take risks to play in the World Cup, although Tuchel has mentioned that Saka may not be able to play full matches regularly.

Currently, England leads Group L following their initial matches and will take on Ghana on Tuesday, with their final group-stage game against Panama on the horizon.

Meanwhile, England captain Harry Kane shared that he draws inspiration from the performances of Argentina's Lionel Messi, who recently scored his first World Cup hat-trick against Algeria, and Norway's Erling Haaland, who netted two goals in his debut.

Kane himself scored twice in the match against Croatia. After the victory, he remarked, "I noticed the goals scored by others, but I prefer not to focus too much on them. However, as an athlete, it's natural to aspire to reach the highest levels, and those players have started strongly."

He also highlighted the enthusiasm and determination within the squad, suggesting that this could be a memorable summer for English footballers. "There's a palpable hunger and excitement among the players to be part of something special," Kane noted, emphasizing the competitive spirit within the team.