Arsenal fans react to Gareth Southgate’s comments amid Bukayo Saka omission

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Plenty of fans, particularly Arsenal supporters, were already left somewhat baffled by Gareth Southgate’s squad and team selections for this international break, but that confusion quickly turned to frustration in the wake of comments made by the England boss on Tuesday night.

Southgate named a squad missing an obvious option for the left-hand side of the defence for the Nations League games against Iceland and Denmark.

Ultimately, it was Kieran Trippier who filled in in that role. But it proved to be an underwhelming international break for the Three Lions as they narrowly beat Iceland before labouring to a goalless draw with Denmark.

England definitely appeared to suffer without a left-footed player in Tuesday’s stalemate. Nevertheless, following the game, Southgate claimed – in comments reported by Sky Sports – that he had little choice.

“Where is that player? I keep hearing that argument but I think Kieran has had two excellent games for us,” he told Sky Sports.

“Of course, a left-sided player gives you that balance but Ben Chilwell and Luke Shaw are injured while Danny Rose isn’t really involved at Spurs at the moment.”

Unsurprisingly, the comments have not gone down at all well with many, particularly Arsenal fans.

‘Not really any excuses’

Bukayo Saka played in every left-sided role for the Gunners last season. And he proved to be a revelation, contributing 11 assists in all competitions. He has already opened his account for his campaign by setting up Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the Community Shield.

Plenty of fans took to Twitter to suggest that they cannot understand why Saka was not involved in the squad.

Southgate may have been reluctant to put too much pressure on the 19-year-old. However, given how Saka has responded to every challenge since his first-team debut, it would have been no surprise if he also managed to impress on the international stage if given a chance.

With that in mind, here is how some of the Arsenal fans reacted to Southgate’s comments…