Bukayo Saka has been a key figure in Arsenal’s recent success and a former England coach was left blown away by one of the winger’s characteristics
Joleon Lescott says he was left astounded by Bukayo Saka’s “insane” decision-making abilities while coaching the forward. The 24-year-old remains integral to Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware this season.
Having joined the Gunners’ youth setup aged seven, Saka’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Since making his senior bow in 2018, he has evolved into one of Arsenal’s most influential figures.
Widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s elite attacking talents, the winger was briefly absent earlier this term due to a hamstring problem but has since returned to bolster his side’s quest for the title following three successive second-place finishes.
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Whilst Saka’s offensive capabilities are well documented, Lescott, who has extensive experience working with England’s senior and youth setups, believes one remarkable element of his play doesn’t receive sufficient recognition.
“When I was working with the England squad I thought he was world-class because his decision-making is so spot on,” Lescott revealed on In The Mixer, brought to you by Sky Bet.
“I’ve never met someone that young, a player who whatever he’s supposed to do, he will do it. His decision-making is insane. Like if you give him down the line it’s, ‘I’m gonna cross with my right foot.’
“If you cut inside and there’s a shot on or a cross on it’s, ‘I’m gonna do it. I’m not gonna think, let me just change this or I’m gonna get bored going down the line or I’m getting bored going inside.’
“It’s like, ‘No.’ If you give him that option, that is the outcome. I was so impressed by his technique fundamentally. It’s underrated. Definitely underrated how clean he is.”
The talented winger signed an extended contract with his boyhood club back in May 2023, though this agreement is due to run until 2027 and he is yet to put pen to paper on fresh terms.
Whilst there has been little public update regarding Saka’s contract discussions, manager Arteta remains optimistic that the 24-year-old will soon pledge his long-term future to the Gunners.
“I prefer that word, I think it is confidence,” Arteta said. “What Bukayo has transmitted to me and the club, and his agent Emeka [Obasi] as well is that they want to continue to be here.
“It’s a very healthy and powerful relationship. The journey that he has had at the club and what he has become is something we want to maintain. That is something that is going to leave a legacy at this club and he needs to fulfil that role.”
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