Bukayo Saka being left out of England’s World Cup opener would be a huge call.
The Arsenal star has been one of his country’s most reliable players for years and, when fully fit, is usually viewed as the obvious choice on the right wing.
However, Thomas Tuchel has given Noni Madueke plenty of opportunities in recent games, while Saka’s fitness has been managed carefully after another demanding season at club level.
Darren Bent now believes that could lead to a major selection decision when England face Croatia in their first game of the tournament.
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Darren Bent thinks Noni Madueke will start ahead of Bukayo Saka vs Croatia
Madueke has clearly made an impression on Tuchel.
The winger has been given chances to show what he can do for England, and even though his end product has not always been perfect, his directness has caught the eye.
That appears to be the key point for Bent.
While trying to predict England’s starting XI for the Croatia game at the World Cup, the former striker suggested Tuchel may be tempted to go with Madueke on the right flank.
That may now work in his favour.
Bent said on talkSPORT: “I think Tuchel likes Madueke, you know?
“Even before Madueke got injured, remember Thomas Tuchel’s first two games were stinkers, it was only Anderson and Madueke who came out with any kind of credit.
“I think he really likes Madueke. It wouldn’t surprise me if he started. I think he is going to go with Madueke. I do.”
Explain to us why Bukayo Saka should still start over Noni Madueke?
Bukayo Saka should still be England’s first-choice right winger
Madueke is a good player, and there is no doubt that he gives England something different.
The Arsenal number 20’s pace, strength and willingness to run directly at defenders can be useful, especially in games where England need someone to create chaos out wide.
However, Saka is still on another level.
The Arsenal academy graduate has proven himself repeatedly for club and country, and his decision-making in the final third is far more reliable than Madueke’s.
England’s opening game against Croatia is not the time to overthink things.
If Saka is fully fit, he should start. Madueke can be a dangerous option from the bench, but dropping Arsenal’s best attacker for the first World Cup game would be a massive risk from Tuchel.
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