England poised to make final World Cup move – Saka

Bukayo Saka said England possess the “talent, passion and confidence” needed to win the World Cup after a series of close calls in major tournaments.

The Arsenal winger was part of Gareth Southgate’s side that reached the European Championship finals twice and advanced to the World Cup quarter‑finals in Qatar in 2022, following a semi‑final appearance in Russia four years earlier.

Asked at England’s Kansas City training base on Monday what lessons the squad could draw from recent tournaments ahead of their opening match against Croatia, Saka replied:

“I think with each tournament it was a different lesson, especially reaching two finals,” said the 24‑year‑old, who has 49 international caps.

“I think it’s mainly the belief. When I look around in the team I see the talent we have, the passion, the confidence.”

“We have some real winners, some real leaders. With belief I think we can go to the next step.”

“I’m excited,” he added. “I think all the players are in good spirits. The vibe around the camp is good. We’re just itching to get this first game underway and start our tournament.”

Saka said Arsenal’s Premier League title win had given him and his teammates a boost of confidence and freedom.

“I think for myself and the other boys from Arsenal, we have a confidence and a freedom that we can approach the World Cup in,” he said. “I think that will definitely improve us.”

England manager Thomas Tuchel noted last week that Saka’s fitness would need careful management after an Achilles injury late in the domestic season. The forward, who returned for the campaign’s climax, declared he was “ready to go” ahead of Wednesday’s match against Croatia in Arlington, Texas.

England’s other Group L opponents are Ghana and Panama.

AFP

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