Arsenal manager Thomas Tuchel insists Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka were desperate to play for England before injury forced their withdrawal from the squad
THOMAS Tuchel has defended Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka after the Arsenal stars withdrew from the England squad ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against Japan.
The manager insisted both players were “desperate” to feature before medical assessments ruled them out.
Rice and Saka watched from the stands as England drew 1-1 with Uruguay on Friday.
They had been allowed to join the national team later than most teammates for additional rest.
The pair were among five injury withdrawals announced on Saturday, alongside Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke.
In total, 10 Arsenal players have withdrawn from international duty in recent days.
This mass exodus has prompted questions over whether the club is prioritising its own trophy chase.
Arsenal lead the Premier League by nine points and remain in contention for the Champions League and FA Cup.
Tuchel was adamant about his players’ intentions for the pre-World Cup friendlies.
“They joined, had a medical assessment, wanted desperately to play, to just get the narrative straight,” Tuchel told reporters.
“The risk for making it worse was just way too big. They were both clearly in discomfort.”
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton also withdrew with an issue described as “more discomfort than a big injury”.
Manchester City defender John Stones left the camp due to a calf problem.
Stones has made only five appearances for City since last playing for England in November.
“It’s not ideal for John and not for us, of course,” Tuchel said.
“He has a lot of credit with me in the bank still. He is a key player for us.”
Tuchel admitted the situation was frustrating but expressed understanding.
“It’s disappointing, but I’m not upset with the players. I’m not angry with the players,” he said.
“I got the feeling that everyone was desperate to come. Some of the injured players even stayed to do their treatment here.”