England manager Thomas Tuchel has hinted that Bukayo Saka may return to the bench for the Three Lions’ second Group L match against Ghana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Arsenal winger had a huge influence as a substitute in England’s 4-2 triumph over Croatia, assisting Marcus Rashford’s late goal shortly after entering the game.

Tuchel, on the other hand, is determined to keep the 24-year-old’s workload under control while he recovers from an Achilles injury.

Saka played through discomfort during Arsenal’s triumphant Premier League title campaign, but England’s coaching staff is focusing on his long-term fitness for the tournament’s later stages.

Tuchel stated ahead of the game against Ghana that Saka is making good progress but is not yet ready to start on a regular basis.

“Bukayo is ready and will get more and more ready. I think once we go to the last game of this group he will be ready,” the England boss said.

Medical tests have apparently revealed that the winger’s Achilles tendonitis has not worsened since the end of the domestic season, but England is hesitant to take needless risks.

The conservative approach may allow his Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke to keep his spot on the right side of the attack after excelling in the tournament opener.

England will travel to Boston for a critical match against Ghana, who defeated Panama 1-0 in their World Cup opener.

A second successive victory would secure England’s spot in the Round of 32, ahead of their final group-stage match against Panama.

While Saka is anticipated to play against the Black Stars, Tuchel’s recent statements indicate that the Arsenal player may be deployed as an impact substitute rather than starting.