Gareth Southgate clarifies why “ruthless” Bukayo Saka has stopped shocking him

Gareth Southgate clarifies why “ruthless” Bukayo Saka has stopped shocking him

Gareth Southgate praised Bukayo Saka for being “ruthless” and then expressed his belief that the Arsenal winger has the potential to further improve.

Saka, who is 21 years old, scored a remarkable goal from 25 yards and also provided an assist for Harry Kane, contributing to England’s flawless start to their Euro qualifying campaign in Group C.

According to Southgate, Saka has elevated his performance to a higher level.

He said: “It was a top-level finish. That is the ruthless part he has added to his game in the last 18 months or so.

“There were times you weren’t sure he was going to finish but now he has that confidence in front of goal.

“His hunger and his humility have got him on a good path so he has all the attributes to continue to improve and learn because that is how he is wired, and I don’t see that changing with him and his family. I am not going to get drawn on where he is in world football.

“He is progressing brilliantly, a joy to work with. When he is in front of goal now he plays with real belief and that is evident with his club and with his games with us.

“You are expecting him to score now when he goes through and that is a mentality shift as much as anything technical. He knows to be a really top wide player you need the number of goals and assists.”

Bukayo Saka, the Arsenal player, acknowledged that his recent goal was one of the best he has scored in his career. He then expressed his eagerness to continue his exceptional form and assist Arsenal in winning the Premier League championship.

Saka said: “That was definitely up there. Soon as it left my foot I sort of knew it was going to be on target and when I looked up it was top corner, so yeah, one of my better goals.

“We played really well and we’re happy with the three points. Football is fun, always fun – that’s why I started playing it! I’m really enjoying my football right now, and I just hope the happiness can continue towards the end of the season.”

Ukraine boss Ruslan Rotan was disappointed in defeat but praised the support from the Wembley crowd and said: “It was an atmosphere unlike any other international game I’ve experienced.”

Gareth Southgate clarifies why “ruthless” Bukayo Saka has stopped shocking him