Thomas Tuchel has admitted he’ll have a selection problem picking between Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke, but he not unhappy about that.
Arsenal’s wingers have shone for England over the last couple of breaks, with Noni Madueke impressing in September whilst Bukayo Saka was injured, then Saka winning Player of the Match for England on Thursday with Madueke out.
So far, England boss Thomas Tuchel hasn’t had to pick between the two wingers, but it was suggested to him on Thursday that he might have trouble making that decision when both are fit.
“Good. That’s what we want,” Tuchel responded. “Noni is unfortunately injured. Noni was excellent in the last camp, he was electric.
“He then continued to play for his club while Bukayo was out for Arsenal in the same manner. We were very, very sad that he’s now injured, but Saka stepped up. He had to step up also.
“The competition is on. Bukayo had a good performance like everyone else and showed what he’s capable of.”
As impressed as Tuchel was with Saka’s performance in midweek, he added that the Arsenal winger can still reach another level.
“I still feel there is a step to go for Bukayo to regain his rhythm, naturally after one or two injuries now, to regain his rhythm and his stamina,” Tuchel added.
“Then, he is a very important player for us and he will fight for his place because that’s what he does.
“He’s played for many, many years for Arsenal at the highest level and this is what we demand of him for England. He’s ready to go and that’s what he showed today.”
Saka himself discussed the competition for places with England after Thursday’s game, and he suggested it’s helping to push everyone to give their all.
“I think what [Tuchel is] setting is very healthy competition,” Saka said. “And it’s fair. Everywhere I look I see quality, whether it’s in my position, whether it’s in other positions.
“Whoever it is, we have to perform. When you have the shirt, you have to perform, whether you’re starting, whether you’re coming in.”
Arsenal fans will hope that Saka and Madueke can push each other in the same way for their club over the coming months, with Madueke currently set to return to fitness some time in November.