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Tuchel says England need Saka but cannot rely on him alone for goals

After a flat goalless draw with Ghana, the England head coach admits his side must find more creativity rather than lean on Bukayo Saka.

Daniel Fletcher

Writer ·

3 min read
England footballer in action symbolising World Cup goalscoring debate
England footballer in action symbolising World Cup goalscoring debate · Illustrative section image

Thomas Tuchel has said England cannot simply rely on Bukayo Saka to solve their World Cup goalscoring problems, while admitting in the same breath that the side needs the Arsenal winger desperately.

The comments followed England's low-chance, goalless draw with Ghana, a result that revived questions over the team's creativity, selection and lack of an obvious Plan B in front of goal.

Background

England arrived at the tournament among the favourites, but a blunt attacking display left supporters frustrated and pundits picking apart a midfield that struggled to manufacture clear openings.

What happens next

Tuchel faces a balancing act: getting more from Saka without making him the team's only route to a goal. How he reshapes his forward line could define England's path through the knockout stages.

Referenced coverage: Our reporting and analysis draws on coverage first reported by Sky Sports. The NE Times publishes original reporting and independent analysis written by our editorial team. We credit and link the outlets whose primary reporting informed this article.

The NE Times is an independent news and analysis publisher. Our articles combine factual reporting with clearly-written, impartial analysis. Content is for general information and does not constitute professional advice. Disclaimer.

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