England’s Right-Wing Dilemma: Is Saka fit to start? 

Bukayo Saka could hold the key to England’s World Cup hopes as Thomas Tuchel prepares to name his latest squad.

The Arsenal star, returning from a hamstring injury, has only featured once under Tuchel, in England’s 3-1 loss to Senegal in June. But he showed signs of his old self this week, scoring for Arsenal in their 2-0 win over Olympiacos.

Saka’s 12 goals for England make him the third-highest scorer in the squad behind Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford, and Tuchel is keen to integrate him back into the side ahead of crucial qualifiers and friendlies.

The 24-year-old occupies the right-wing position, a spot where he remains ahead of younger options like Noni Madueke, who is unavailable for this camp due to injury. With just three international breaks left before World Cup preparations, Saka’s experience and attacking threat make him central to Tuchel’s plans.

While minutes may be shared in midfield with returning star Jude Bellingham, Saka’s role on the right appears secure. Tuchel’s challenge will be balancing fitness, form, and squad chemistry as he builds what he hopes will be his best XI before the World Cup.

The upcoming fixtures — a friendly against Wales and a World Cup qualifier against Latvia — will give Tuchel the chance to see Saka back in action and determine how the England side shapes up around him.