Bukayo Saka has confirmed he is fit and available for England’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures after withdrawing from the squad during the October international break. The Arsenal winger, who returned to action for his club in November, stated he is "feeling great" as he prepares for the decisive matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.
Saka’s Return to Lee Carsley’s Squad
Bukayo Saka missed England’s October double-header against Greece and Finland due to a hamstring injury sustained during the Three Lions’ 2-1 defeat to Greece at Wembley on October 10. Following his recovery, interim manager Lee Carsley has recalled the 23-year-old for the final group stage matches of the Nations League.
"I’m feeling great, I’m ready to go," Saka told reporters during the England camp. His return provides a significant boost to the squad, as England currently sits second in League B Group 2, trailing Greece by three points. England must secure a victory in Athens on Thursday to maintain realistic hopes of topping the group and securing automatic promotion to League A.
England’s Selection Challenges
While Saka’s return bolsters the attacking options, England’s roster has been impacted by a series of withdrawals. The Football Association confirmed that eight players—including Declan Rice, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Levi Colwill, Cole Palmer, Aaron Ramsdale, and Bukayo Saka’s teammate at Arsenal, Ben White—are unavailable for this window.
The high volume of absences has led to the emergency call-ups of Morgan Rogers, Jarrod Bowen, Jarrad Branthwaite, Tino Livramento, and James Trafford. Despite the reshuffled lineup, Saka emphasized the importance of the collective focus on the upcoming challenges. "We have a lot of quality in this squad, and we are looking forward to these games," he noted.
Stakes in the Nations League
The matches against Greece on November 14 and the Republic of Ireland on November 17 represent the final games under interim manager Lee Carsley. Thomas Tuchel is scheduled to officially take over as the permanent England head coach on January 1, 2025.
For the players, these fixtures are critical for both Nations League standings and individual momentum heading into the new managerial era. According to the current group table, England’s path to promotion relies on overturning the goal difference deficit and securing maximum points from the final two encounters.
Quick Facts: England’s November Schedule
- Match 1: Greece vs. England, Thursday, November 14, Athens.
- Match 2: England vs. Republic of Ireland, Sunday, November 17, Wembley Stadium.
- Group Status: England currently holds 9 points, trailing Greece (12 points).
- Managerial Context: These are the final matches for interim boss Lee Carsley before Thomas Tuchel assumes control in 2025.