Arsenal came from behind to secure a 3-1 victory against Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday at the Emirates Stadium.
With that victory, the Gunners maintained their unbeaten run to the season. After a stalemate in the first half, the home side were stunned by Cameron Archer’s opener, but goals from Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka sealed all three points.
Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker have been left impressed by Saka, with the former calling the 23-year-old a “phenomenal” player.
Lineker and Micah Richards also praised the Gunners forward, who also registered two assists during the game to complete a superlative performance on its own.
What Lineker and Shearer said about Bukayo Saka
While discussing Arsenal’s victory over Southampton, the trio shared their admiration for Saka.
Chelsea winger Cole Palmer may look attractive in terms of style of play, but Saka’s consistency has been nothing short of remarkable.
He was one of the main reasons why Arsenal managed to challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title in the past two seasons and he is expected to play a major role yet again as the Gunners eyeing for league glory.
“He is just an incredible player. Left foot, right foot, attitude. He gets hit every week, but he goes back for more. He never shirks off a challenge. Ah, he is just a phenomenal footballer,” said Shearer on The Rest Is Football.
Lineker said: “He has this sweet little personality in nature that makes him very likeable. He is fiercely competitive. And strong, isn’t it? Hard, so tough to get off the ball. I love watching him play.”
Bukayo Saka is a sensational player
Rio Ferdinand (and probably others) might feel that Saka is not a world-class player yet, but there’s no doubt that the England attacker is a class apart.
Last season, he scored 16 goals and provided nine assists in the Premier League alone, but his contributions go beyond just goals and assists. He is one of those players who loves to take responsibility and tries to influence others with examples.
This season, he has managed two goals in the league and has provided seven assists already.
Mikel Arteta described Saka after the game as “unbelievable”, saying he has the ability to change the game. He is invaluable to the Arsenal side, and seemingly loved by all.