Bukayo Saka claims he is ready to start England's World Cup opener against Croatia despite lingering Achilles concerns. The 24-year-old winger has struggled with fitness since March, which limited him to five starts during the Arsenal run-in. He completed a full 90 minutes only once during that period before the tournament.

Manager Thomas Tuchel expressed caution last week, suggesting the team must take care of the winger. Saka played just 27 minutes in a warm-up match against Costa Rica. Despite these limitations, Saka told reporters in Kansas City that he feels better now than he has in months and is prepared to play.

This fitness gamble follows a season where Saka helped Arsenal win their first Premier League title in 22 years, though they lost the Champions League Final to Paris Saint-Germain on penalties. He now competes with Noni Madueke for the right flank spot as England begins their Group L campaign in Dallas this Wednesday.