BBC Sport pundit Alan Shearer has given his verdict on the performance of Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka for England against Serbia on Sunday evening.
Saka is one of the best young players in the world and is a regular in the England starting lineup. After all, he has played over 30 times for the Three Lions and he is just 22.
As expected, England head coach Gareth Southgate included the Arsenal winger in the starting lineup for their opening UEFA Euro 2024 Group C game against Serbia.
The 22-year-old was a force to be reckoned with in the first half and was involved in the goal that Jude Bellingham scored in the 13th minute.
Saka, rated highly by Michael Owen, tormented the Serbia defence in the first 45 minutes, but the Arsenal star could not keep it up after the break and was taken off in the 76th minute.
Pundits give verdicts on Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka’s display for England
Former Manchester United and England international central defender Rio Ferdinand was impressed by the performance produced by Saka in the first half.
While Alan Shearer was blown away by Saka in the first half, the former England and Newcastle United striker did note that the winger struggled in the second period.
Ferdinand said about Saka at half time on BBC One (8:51 pm): “I think you have to shout out Saka as well. Saka, his blend and mix has been top drawer. He has turned his fullback inside out in the first half.”
Shearer said about Saka in the 76th minute of the match: “Yeah, I think they just couldn’t get near him in the first half, just not really had enough of the ball in the second half.
“I understand why he (Gareth Southgate) is trying to look at Bowen and give him a little bit of a rest, but he was unplayable in the first half. Couldn’t get near him.”
Encouraging performance from Bukayo Saka
While Saka was not at his absolute best, the Arsenal winger did give a good account of himself for England against Serbia.
The youngster had a pass accuracy of 87.5%, took 49 touches, attempted two dribbles, made one clearance, and gave three crosses.
Saka, whose consistency has blown away Theo Walcott, is a big player for England.
If the Three Lions are to go far in UEFA Euro 2024, then Saka will have to deliver the goods.
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