World Cup 2026: Jamie Carragher issues ‘drop and start’ verdict on Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka before Ghana test

Former England defender Jamie Carragher has urged Thomas Tuchel to tread carefully with key fitness concerns as England prepare for their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group L meeting with Ghana.

The former Liverpool captain believes Declan Rice should still be risked despite his recent discomfort, while caution is needed over Bukayo Saka’s involvement as England balance performance with player welfare.

Rice fitness concern eased but caution urged

Declan Rice was taken off in the 72nd minute of England’s opening 4-2 win over Croatia in Arlington, prompting brief concern over his condition.

The Arsenal midfielder, however, has since clarified that he is managing a long-standing hamstring issue and remains available for selection against the Black Stars.

Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports, suggested the substitution was precautionary rather than injury-driven and insisted Tuchel should not consider resting the 27-year-old in such a high-stakes fixture.

“You don’t rest when you’re at the World Cup. If England win vs. Ghana, maybe you can do that in the third game, if you’re guaranteed top spot. I don’t think you’re in a situation where you rest Declan Rice,” he said.

Rice, who featured in all eight of England’s qualifying matches, has remained a central figure in midfield alongside Elliot Anderson, with his consistency seen as vital to England’s control in possession and defensive structure.

Saka management becomes key selection dilemma

Carragher was more reserved when discussing Bukayo Saka, who did not start England’s opener. The Arsenal winger has struggled with fitness interruptions in recent seasons, and Carragher suggested England must avoid accelerating his return at the risk of long-term consequences.

“The fact Saka didn’t start the first game means his injury is probably a little more serious than Rice’s,” he noted.

He added that while Saka’s talent makes him indispensable when fully fit, delaying his introduction too long could also disrupt his rhythm heading into the knockout stages.

“I don’t think you risk him, because you don’t want to lose him for the tournament. But the longer the tournament goes on without him starting a game, it’s very difficult to expect him to come in for the knockout games and be at his absolute best,” Carragher said.

Tuchel faces selection pressure against Ghana

England boss Thomas Tuchel is expected to continue with Noni Madueke in the starting lineup ahead of Saka for the clash with Ghana, coached by Carlos Queiroz.

However, he still faces key decisions in defence and attack, including whether to retain John Stones and Anthony Gordon as England look to build momentum in the group.

With qualification positioning at stake, Tuchel’s balance between caution and competitive edge could prove decisive in shaping England’s tournament trajectory.