Marcus Rashford has given England a fitness scare ahead of their World Cup clash with Ghana, after complaining of muscle tightness at the end of Wednesday’s 4-2 win over Croatia. The winger, who came off the bench to score England’s fourth goal, was also felt to be troubled by his hamstring, prompting concern over the quick turnaround before Tuesday’s Group match in Boston.
Rashford’s discomfort compounds an already delicate selection puzzle for head coach Thomas Tuchel, who is also managing Bukayo Saka’s participation. Saka, who provided the assist for Rashford’s strike after entering the fray in the 72nd minute, has been carrying an Achilles tendinitis issue. Tuchel revealed on Monday that the Arsenal attacker is unlikely to start until England’s final group game against Panama on 27 June.
“Marcus Rashford complained of muscle tightness after scoring against Croatia; Bukayo Saka unlikely to start vs Ghana due to Achilles issue.”
“Bukayo is ready and will get more and more ready,” Tuchel said. “I think once we go to the last game of this group he will be ready.” Saka himself insisted he was prepared to “gamble” on his fitness for the team, but behind-the-scenes caution remains. Despite Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s guarded approach to injury information, Tuchel’s admission has thrust the 24-year-old’s condition into the spotlight. It is understood that the Achilles issue has not deteriorated since the end of the domestic season.
Tuchel, who has spoken about the value of having starters and “finishers” on the bench, started Noni Madueke and Anthony Gordon against Croatia, with Saka and Rashford making an impact late on. The German is thought to be protecting Saka for the latter stages of the tournament, but may yet call on him against Ghana if required.
England’s players were given a full day off on Friday, instructed to relax with family and friends in Kansas City. For Tuchel, the next 48 hours will be crucial in deciding whether to stick with his finishers or twist by giving them a bigger role from the start.