THOMAS TUCHEL says Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka were desperate to play for England, but felt the risk of the Arsenal duo aggravating injuries was “way too big” at this stage of the season.The German coach picked an expanded 35-man squad for the final camp before making his World Cup selection, with the first wave of players joined by 11 established names on Friday.Rice and Saka were among the late arrivals but, having watched the 1-1 draw with Uruguay at Wembley, were among five injury withdrawals the following day, along with Arsenal team-mate Noni Madueke.

THOMAS TUCHEL says Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka were desperate to play for England, but felt the risk of the Arsenal duo aggravating injuries was “way too big” at this stage of the season.

The German coach picked an expanded 35-man squad for the final camp before making his World Cup selection, with the first wave of players joined by 11 established names on Friday.

Rice and Saka were among the late arrivals but, having watched the 1-1 draw with Uruguay at Wembley, were among five injury withdrawals the following day, along with Arsenal team-mate Noni Madueke.

From Morning Star via This RSS Feed.