Saka misses England training ahead of Ghana World Cup clash

England's World Cup preparations have been hit by a minor concern as Bukayo Saka was the only player missing from the group training session ahead of their second Group B match against Ghana. The Three Lions are looking to build on their opening performance, but the fitness of the Arsenal winger now becomes a talking point.

What happened

As the squad gathered for their scheduled training session at the team's base in Qatar, all 25 outfield players and goalkeepers reported for duty except for Bukayo Saka. Manager Gareth Southgate and his staff oversaw the session, but the 21-year-old was notably absent. No official statement has been released regarding his condition, but the fact he trained alone suggests the medical team is managing a potential issue. England are due to face Ghana in their second group game, a fixture that could prove crucial for progression to the knockout stages.

Why it matters

Saka has been one of England's most dynamic attackers, providing width, creativity, and work rate from the right flank. His ability to both score and create makes him a vital cog in Southgate's system. With Ghana posing a physical and fast-paced threat, England will need every weapon at their disposal. Even a minor knock could force Southgate to reshuffle his lineup, potentially giving opportunities to the likes of Phil Foden or Jack Grealish in a more advanced role. The absence from group training, even if precautionary, raises the stakes ahead of a pivotal fixture.

What it means for England

If Saka is deemed fit, he will likely retain his place in the starting eleven. However, if there is any doubt, Southgate may opt to protect his player for the longer tournament run. The England camp will be cautious, especially given the rapid turnover of games in the group stage. Fans will be anxiously awaiting updates, but early signs suggest this could be a minor niggle rather than a serious injury. The coming days will reveal whether Saka resumes full training or remains an individual work schedule. For now, England's focus remains on securing a second win that would all but guarantee a spot in the Round of 16.