Arsenal stars Aaron Ramsdale and Bukayo Saka are enjoying preparation for the FIFA 2022 World Cup.
Arsenal have 10 players going to the World Cup this year – three of those representing England. It is refreshing to see as, for some reason, England managers in recent history have not been keen on taking Arsenal players, despite them showing great form and potential domestically.
Gareth Southgate is a big fan of Bukayo Saka, though. He was the first to consolidate the Arsenal forward after his missed penalty against Italy in Euro 2020, as the manager has been there himself.
There will always be question marks around Saka now from the reactionary England fans. Unfortunately, it is in the nature of football fans to criticise young players and forget about their inexperience.
Aaron Ramsdale, though, has heaped a lot of praise onto his teammate for club and country. According to the Sun, the England goalkeeper claims Saka has reacted “impeccably” to the penalty miss, as shown recently in the league when he slotted a high-stakes penalty home for Arsenal as they beat Liverpool.
The goalkeeper then goes on to say that Saka is his own harshest critic, as he blamed himself for Arsenal finishing outside of the top four as he could have gave more. It is a well known fact that Saka was the Gunners’ best player last season, so the fact he wants to do better at a young age is telling of his mentality.
Saka is not likely to start every game for England as there is quality around him. However, he will be hungry to fight for his place. When he is given the chance to impress, you can almost guarantee he will impress. Fearless and technical with the ball at his feet, he could be England’s creative hub as they look to make amends for their narrow shortcomings in recent competitions.
How far do you think England will go in this year’s World Cup?