Bukayo Saka has been hailed by pundits following his starring role in the Three Lions’ 7-0 destruction of North Macedonia. Joe Cole was waxing lyrical lauding the youngster’s talent and labeling the winger as the ‘face of England’s future’.
Saka scored the first hat-trick of his international football career in the victory at Old Trafford, with his stunning second goal emerging clearly as the highlight of the Euro 2024 qualifier. The 21-year-old latched onto a pass from Trent Alexander-Arnold before sending a powerful left footed drive into the top corner.
Former England midfielder Cole claimed Saka had struck the ball with ‘violence’, believing firmly that the Arsenal winger has assuredly nailed down his spot in Gareth Bale’s side.
“What a performance, that’s the face of English football’s future,’ Cole said.
“Of all the players we’ve got he seems to be the number one on the right wing.
“He hit it in with violence, his first touch is perfect and he had the composure and technique right.”
Former Liverpool ace Steven Gerrard was also forthright in hailing Saka’s second goal of the match, with the England and Liverpool legend then proceeding to highlight the extremely talented winger’s potential.
He suggested Saka has definite world class potential as Mikel Arteta continues on his mission to develop players and his highly impressive Arsenal squad.
“We were right behind the [second] goal. Saka knows as soon the ball comes inside he can get on his bike,” Gerrard said.
“There’s still plenty to do, the strike was absolutely wow.
“He comes across as so humble. The scary thing is he’s only going to get better. Being around talented players here, he’s got the world at his feet. He’s got world class potential.”
Saka’s performance was the icing on the cake for a stunning individual season for the winger, who scored 15 goals and provided 15 assists for Arsenal in all competitions this season.
The 21-year-old also made 10 appearances for England during the campaign, scoring seven goals for the Three Lions.