Bukayo Saka has had a frustrating start to the World Cup.
The Arsenal winger has only started once, in the 2-0 win over Panama last time out, appearing as a substitute against both Croatia and Ghana.
Fitness issues have been a recurring theme for Saka in recent months: he was nursed back to action by Arsenal late in the season after struggling with a hamstring injury, and he admitted that he was “gambling” with his fitness for England.
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Is Bukayo Saka injured for the DR Congo clash?
Saka has been named on the bench for England’s last 32 match against DR Congo, which kicks off at 5pm UK time today.
Arsenal team-mate Noni Madueke will start in his place, and there will inevitably be more questions about Saka’s condition.
The decision to leave him out suggests the 24-year-old is still not at 100%, and that England are reluctant to risk playing him for a full 90 minutes at this stage of the tournament.
Saka has been undergoing individual training and his match load is being carefully managed to ensure he is ready for potential matches later at the World Cup.
“He seems to be more and more ready and will hopefully push,” manager Thomas Tuchel said of Saka before the Panama match. “We will then see.
“It’s not like Bukayo comes back and everything is solved and I don’t want to put this on his back.
“He’s a top player, that’s why he’s with us, and he will get his minutes. We need him desperately, like every other player, in top shape.
“But everyone is doing their best and it’s not the moment to shout individual names to help us out. We’re in a good place still.”
Despite his limited minutes, Saka has two assists to his name at the World Cup so far.
He could well make a decisive impact from the bench if needed as England look to set up a last 16 clash with Mexico.