Saka says England have belief to take next step at World Cup

LONDON: Bukayo Saka said England have the quality and self-belief to turn recent near-misses at major tournaments into World Cup success as the team prepares to begin its campaign against Croatia.

The Arsenal forward has been part of an England side that finished runners-up in two European Championship finals, reached the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and made the semi-finals in Russia four years earlier. Speaking at England's training base in Kansas City on Monday, Saka said those experiences had helped shape the squad's mentality ahead of the new tournament.

Asked what lessons the team could draw from previous competitions, the 24-year-old said each tournament had offered something different, but stressed that belief was central. He said the squad had the talent, passion and confidence to go further this time, adding that the group also included proven winners and leaders.

In his remarks, Saka said England were ready to move on from falling just short in earlier campaigns.