Arsenal youngster Bukayo Saka credits Freddie Ljungberg’s influence on his career

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Arsenal speedster Bukayo Saka announced himself in the senior side last night with a goal in the Europa League group stage last night, to go with two assists.

And as per the Sun, Saka has been keen to hail the impact Freddie Ljungberg – who was promoted during the summer in order to oversee the progress of young players into the first team – has had on his progress.

He said: “It helps me so much having Freddie on the training pitch. Freddie has been a player at this level before and a very good one. He played in the same position as me on the left wing and he’s been a big part in my progress. I couldn’t ask for much more than to have an Arsenal legend giving me advice every day.

“He’s been with me since I was 15 and seen me do amazing things but his main message is always to stay humble and keep working hard because he really thinks I can be a top player.”

TBR’s View – Ljungberg’s summer promotion is looking like a masterstroke

Arsenal’s crop of young players is arguably the most exciting aspect of life at the club these days and that was acknowledged when Ljungberg moved up to replace Steve Bould.

The purpose appeared to be to help those young guns feel more comfortable in and around the first team setup and have a familiar face around as they seek to establish themselves.

Saka’s comments made it plain that it’s having the desired effect and the likes of Joe Willock and Reiss Nelson have also impressed so far this term.