England manager Thomas Tuchel has dismissed speculation regarding the fitness of Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, confirming the Arsenal pair were ruled out of the upcoming friendly against Japan due to genuine injury concerns.
Thomas Tuchel has staunchly defended Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka after they became the latest Arsenal players to withdraw from international duty.
Addressing claims of “self-preservation” during a congested club season, Tuchel insisted both players underwent rigorous fitness tests.
He explained his decision to protect his stars, stating: “It’s the moment of the season where I am also not willing to take any risk.”
The England boss revealed that Saka was still hampered by pains stemming from Arsenal’s Carabao Cup final defeat, while Rice attempted to train before being sidelined.
Tuchel emphasized that player health remains the priority for non-competitive fixtures, noting: “We will not push players now with 70 per cent through a friendly match because they will be judged.”
England faces Japan at Wembley on Tuesday evening.