Bukayo Saka reported for England duty today, and one thing about his arrival will have delighted Arsenal supporters.
Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is likely to feature heavily for England at this summer’s EUROs tournament.
The 22-year-old already has 32 caps to his name, and was heavily involved in both the 2020 EUROs and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Gareth Southgate is hugely reliant upon the Hale End academy graduate to add goal threat and creativity to the right flank of his team.
After a short break following the end of the Premier League campaign, Saka has now reported for international duty with the Three Lions, as part of the preliminary squad which has been gathered together to prepare for the summer tournament.
Saka has been joined at the training camp by two of his Arsenal teammates, Declan Rice and Aaron Ramsdale.
Mikel Arteta will be keeping a keen eye on the Gunners’ trio over the course of the summer, hoping that they each perform well for their country and, crucially, avoid injury.
Bukayo Saka represents Arsenal on England duty
Meanwhile, Arsenal fans will have gotten a kick from seeing Saka report for England duty today, as he did so in a manner that represented the North London club. As shown in a video posted on the official England YouTube channel, Saka arrived with his kit in an official Arsenal bag, proudly bearing the club’s crest.
Based on what could be gleaned from this footage, Saka was the only England star to turn up with club merchandise in tow.
The winger is a talismanic figure at the Emirates Stadium, and is adored by supporters of the club. They will be proud to see him representing his nation this summer.
Bukayo Saka central to prospects of Arsenal success
Saka was in sensational form for the Gunners this season. The attacker was able to rack up 20 goals and 14 assists in 47 appearances, across all competitions, making him the most potent goal threat in Arteta’s squad. Iconic former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger recently declared Saka to be “world-class.”
Of course, this season ended in disappointment for Arsenal, as they were beaten to the Premier League title by Manchester City on the final day of the campaign. Saka was spotted being consoled on the pitch by Ramsdale after it was confirmed that the trophy would not be coming to North London on this occasion.
Arsenal will be aiming to go one better next season, and see themselves crowned champions. Saka will be considered vital to the viability of this ambition.