Wayne Rooney seriously impressed by ‘top’ Arsenal player’s form

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Wayne Rooney has told The Times that Bukayo Saka is a top player as he backed the Arsenal star for a potential starting spot for England at the World Cup.

No one will have been shocked to see Saka named in the Three Lions’ squad for Qatar this week. The Arsenal youngster has been outstanding for club and country for several years now.

Of course, the Gunners are flying high at the top of the Premier League this season. And no player in Mikel Arteta’s squad has had a direct hand in more goals in the top-flight so far this term.

Rooney labels Bukayo Saka a top player

Obviously, Gareth Southgate will probably look to rotate his options throughout the tournament. But it will be interesting to see which side he selects for England’s opening game, against Iran later this month.

For many, Saka should get the nod on the right of the forward line.

Rooney named his side for the opening game. He did admit that he could not choose between Saka and Raheem Sterling. But he did explain why he would be happy if Saka was picked ahead of the Chelsea forward.

“On the right, it’s a difficult one. For England, Sterling has been very good and Saka is a top player, so I would play either of them off the right,” he told The Times.

“Saka puts Sterling under pressure, though. He plays with no fear and we’ve been talking about players not being in club form, but he is the opposite: he has been in great form for Arsenal. They’re great options for Gareth and I think in different games he’ll change his team up. I don’t think anyone could complain whichever one is chosen.”

As Rooney suggests, both players will be needed as the tournament goes on. There may well be times when they are both on the pitch as England look to surpass expectations this time around.

Sterling has been a stalwart of the England side for most of the last decade. And remarkably, he is still only 27 years of age.

Saka meanwhile, has been so consistent for a number of years. He was often a rare shining light for Arsenal during their time outside of the top-four. And he has remained a key player now they have ascended into the title picture.

Certainly, Gunners supporters will not be at all surprised if Saka goes on to steal the show in the coming weeks.