Saka Must Step Up Now, Warns Walker as England Face Congo Test

Former England defender Kyle Walker has thrown his weight behind Bukayo Saka to become a genuine force in this World Cup, insisting the Arsenal winger must join Kane and Bellingham in carrying the load if the Three Lions harbour genuine ambitions of lifting the trophy.

England's passage to the knockout rounds came via a 2-0 victory over Panama on Saturday, which secured top spot in Group L and set up Wednesday's clash with DR Congo in Atlanta. Yet the performance left plenty wanting, with Kane and Bellingham again doing the heavy lifting in what was a second successive unconvincing outing.

The Manchester City legend, who earned 96 caps for his country, believes the burden cannot rest solely on the shoulders of England's two star men. Speaking to The Sun, Walker acknowledged that while Bellingham and Kane must maintain their standards, reinforcements are desperately needed from the supporting cast.

"Bellingham is looking very good and Harry is doing what Harry does," Walker said. "Jude was probably the best player against Panama, and drove them forward in the second half. Meanwhile Harry got a standard Harry Kane goal."

Walker made particular note of Saka's showing against Panama, which marked his first competitive start of the tournament. Despite some criticism levelled at the winger's display, the former defender sees genuine promise ahead.

"These players need to perform, of course they do, but you need others to step up as well. And I feel Bukayo Saka is going to come into it now," Walker explained. "Against Panama those were his first proper minutes from the start, getting up to the rhythm of the game."

The 96-cap veteran praised Saka's pedigree, highlighting his resilience through injury troubles in recent seasons. "He is an incredible player and in the last few seasons has been nothing short of brilliant despite his injuries," Walker noted.

With the tournament now entering its business end, Walker stressed that England cannot afford to carry passengers. Every outfield player must contribute, with the standard rising markedly as opposition improves.

"Saka is one of the more senior members of the team and he has to take games by the scruff of the neck like Jude and Harry do," Walker added. "We can't just lean on certain players either, everyone needs to chip in. Everyone needs to up it now another five or ten percent because the opponents are getting better."

England's group stage campaign saw them overcome Croatia before stumbling to a draw against Ghana, before recovering to top their pool with victory over Panama. Walker acknowledged that while the group stage was navigated successfully, the real examination now begins.

"Knockout football is when it really matters. You can't win a tournament in a group stage, but you can lose one by going out," the City legend reflected.

He concluded with a rallying cry ahead of the knockout phase: "You put the shirt on with pride, it's all about the badge, and playing with your heart on your sleeve. But England are going to have to start playing their best football now. Any game in this tournament is going to be a difficult one from here on."