Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is central to Thomas Tuchel’s England selection dilemma, with the manager weighing up which right-back can best support him against Croatia.
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jarell Quansah have each started once during this Nations League window. As talkSPORT reports, their understanding with Saka forms part of Tuchel’s decision.
Bukayo Saka partnership shapes England selection
Speaking before Saturday’s game, Tuchel explained why movement around the Arsenal forward matters.
In comments reported by the Mirror’s John Cross, he said:
“Bukayo is normally used to a lot of movements around him. That brings normally the best out of Bukayo.”
Tuchel wants Alexander-Arnold and Saka to avoid becoming too static together. He also challenged the Real Madrid defender to adapt aspects of his game beyond his usual strengths.
Alexander-Arnold supplied the assist for Anthony Gordon’s opener against Czechia, demonstrating the creative quality he brings to the position.
Why the decision matters for Saka
Our view is that the supporting runs could be just as important as the passes into Saka’s feet.
An overlapping teammate gives the opposing full-back another threat to track. That can create space for Saka to move inside or combine with a midfielder.
Saka received a critical 5/10 assessment from The Standard after the Czechia victory. Tuchel’s comments now offer a specific explanation of the attacking relationship he wants to develop.
England face Croatia in Rijeka at 5pm BST. The selection will be another development to follow in our Arsenal international break tracker.
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