England legend John Barnes believes the biggest concern for Bukayo Saka at the World Cup is not his form or goal tally, but his fitness.

The Arsenal star comes into the World Cup after a superb season in which he helped the London side win the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years. However, he has continued to struggle with Achilles tendon problems, which have also limited him in the national team.

Saka started England’s first match against Croatia from the bench, while Noni Madueke took his place on the right wing of the attack. Also, he has not fully participated in the team’s training ahead of the challenge with Ghana.

According to Barnes, it all depends on the player’s physical condition.

“His form has been excellent at Arsenal, but the main question is how ready he is physically. We all know the quality he has, so the biggest problem is only his physical condition and not his footballing skills,” he said.

Barnes also pointed out that Saka’s number of goals it shouldn’t be a concern.

“If England wins the World Cup and Saka doesn’t score a goal, it doesn’t matter. The important thing is that he is part of a winning team. Football is not just about individual statistics,” said the former England winger.

According to him, coach Thomas Tuchel doesn’t focus on the players’ personal numbers, but on how they contribute to the team.

Meanwhile, Tuchel himself has announced that he will not take any risks with Sakan. After the 4-2 win over Croatia, the German coach stated that the player is recovering well and is expected to be fully fit by the end of the group stage.

Saka was the only England player who did not train with the group over the weekend, following an individual program inside the training facilities while the rest of the squad prepared for the game against Ghana. /GazetaExpress/

Source: prizrenpost