Carragher: Rice Must Start for England, but Saka Should Sit Out

Jamie Carragher has stirred the pot ahead of England's international friendly against Ghana, insisting that Declan Rice is indispensable despite question marks over his fitness, while urging caution over Bukayo Saka.

The Liverpool legend and pundit, never shy with an opinion, believes Gareth Southgate faces a delicate balancing act. With the World Cup looming, every minute on the pitch matters—but so does protecting key assets.

The Rice Dilemma

Declan Rice has become the heartbeat of England's midfield. His ability to break up play, drive forward, and shield the back four makes him one of the first names on the team sheet. Carragher argues that even if Rice is not at 100%, his presence is vital against a Ghana side that will be physical and direct.

England's depth in midfield is not what it is in other areas. Jordan Henderson and Kalvin Phillips offer different profiles, but neither replicates Rice's specific skill set. Dropping him would mean a tactical reshuffle, and with the World Cup just months away, Southgate needs his first-choice partnership to gel.

The Saka Risk

Bukayo Saka's situation is different, according to Carragher. The Arsenal winger has carried a heavy workload this season and has had previous spells on the sidelines with hamstring issues. Risking him in a friendly, even against a World Cup-bound side like Ghana, would be irresponsible.

England have depth out wide: Raheem Sterling, Phil Foden, and Jack Grealish are all vying for starting spots. Saka's creativity and directness are unique, but so is his importance to Arsenal's Premier League push. Carragher's point is that the long-term payoff of keeping Saka fresh outweighs any short-term gain from playing him.

What It Means for England

These are the kinds of headaches Southgate will welcome—having too many good players. But the Rice-Saka contrast highlights a tricky reality: not all stars are equal. Rice's role is harder to replace, so he plays through knocks. Saka's position is more competitive, so he can be spared.

Carragher's comments will fuel debate among fans, but they also reflect a pragmatic approach to squad management. If England are to go deep in Qatar, they need both players fit and firing. The Ghana friendly is a chance to test alternatives and give minutes to those on the fringe—while keeping the core intact.

Ultimately, this isn't just about one game. It's about building momentum without breaking the team. Carragher has thrown down a marker: Rice must feature, Saka must watch.