I am ready to play despite injury doubts ahead of World Cup opener

Bukayo Saka says he is ready to take a “gamble” with his fitness and play in England’s World Cup opener against Croatia on Wednesday, despite still managing an Achilles injury.

The Arsenal winger has been dealing with the problem since March and has had his playing time carefully controlled by both Arsenal and England. He missed several matches for the Gunners and also sat out the March international break because of the injury.

However, Saka returned later in the season to help Arsenal win the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years.

England manager Thomas Tuchel has said he needs to protect the 24-year-old, adding it is “very unlikely” that Saka would play every minute of the tournament matches.

But Saka insisted he is ready if called upon.

“I don’t want to say anything that goes against the manager,” he said. “Between Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal medical team and Thomas Tuchel and the England medical team, they have managed me very well since March.

“I’m feeling better than I have felt in the last few months and I’m ready to go.”

Saka, who is set to make his 50th England appearance, played 27 minutes in a warm-up match against Costa Rica as his minutes were managed.

He also spoke about the pressure of playing while not fully fit, saying it is a “gamble” he is willing to take.

“As players, it’s the biggest gamble, especially if you’re not feeling your sharpest,” he said. “People expect you to perform no matter what.

“I’m happy to take that gamble and it paid off. I’m going to continue doing that.”

Saka is expected to compete with his Arsenal team-mate Noni Madueke for a starting place on the right wing. Despite the rivalry, he said they remain close friends.

“Noni is like my brother on and off the pitch,” Saka said. “We push each other and speak every day. We want each other to do well.”

England now wait to see if Saka will be fit enough to start or whether his minutes will again be carefully managed in their opening World Cup match.