Alan Smith claims Arsenal have a ‘sensational’ talent, he’s ‘a nightmare’ for defenders

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Alan Smith has told Sky Sports News (23/6, 11:09) that Arsenal have a ‘sensational’ talent in England winger Bukayo Saka.

The forward was one of the stars of the show on Wednesday as the Three Lions beat the Czech Republic. Gareth Southgate handed Saka his first start of the tournament after leaving the 19-year-old out of his squad against Scotland.

Southgate could now struggle to omit the Gunners product in the Last 16 after Saka’s mazey run led to the only goal of the night. The winger was a driving force on the right-hand channel all game, using possession to create chances.

Saka was named the Man of the Match against the Czech Republic such was the brilliance of his performance. His cunning work early in the first half also eventually led to Jack Grealish finding Raheem Sterling to break the deadlock.

The move illuminated the counter-attacking potential Saka can offer England, with the Arsenal star never afraid to turn and run with the ball. The occasion was clearly not too big for the gifted six-cap star that Smith can only laud.

“Saka is amazing,” Smith said. “He doesn’t strike me as the type of character that does particularly suffer with nerves. He got some good early first touches, and that always helps, and he settled into his game and then he played that great part in the goal. And he is a player that can go right or left.

“As a defender, he’s a nightmare – you don’t know which way he’s going to go. He can give, maybe, a bit more width than [Phil] Foden by going on the outside. Even without my Arsenal hat, you’ve got to admire Saka. For one so young, he’s a sensational talent.”

TBR’s view: Arsenal already aware of Saka brilliance

Arsenal fans would already have been aware of the brilliance that Saka can offer from his efforts at the Emirates. But his England exploits now put those displays front and centre for a wider audience to admire.

Smith’s praise is nothing more than Saka deserves for his performance against the Czech Republic, as well. And the Gunners legend knew what he can bring, after offering Mikel Arteta’s side seven goals and 10 assists last season.

Southgate will likely now struggle to leave Saka out of his plans deeper into Euro 2020, too. He brought a lot more energy to the role than Foden had managed in the Three Lions’ opening games and heaps more width.

England were very stagnant in attack in the opening two group stage fixtures with Foden on the wing. But regularly looked like causing a threat with Saka running from deep, which will be increasingly important against tougher sides.