'He's A Player We're Watching Very Closely' - Southgate Explains Why NFF Target Saka Wasn't Called Up

Bukayo Saka's omission from the latest England squad list announced on Tuesday afternoon generated a lot of debate, with non-Nigerian fans and pundits alike questioning the decision of Gareth Southgate to snub the versatile left-sided player.

There is no recognized left-back in the Three Lions squad, with Ben Chilwell and Luke Shaw not available for selection due to injury while Danny Rose has been snubbed as a result of a loss of form.

Southgate explained that Saka was not called up because he is more of an attack-minded player than a defender, adding that the Hale End Academy product is in line to be named to the England U21 team for the Euro qualifiers next month.

"He's obviously with the Under-21s this time and I feel he's more of an attacking player. I know he's played at left-back and he's given good contributions there in an attacking sense certainly," Southgate was quoted as saying by Goal.com.

"At the moment left wing-back, left side higher up the pitch, I know he's played in midfield and on the right as well but that they would be his better positions. He’s a very exciting player.

"It is still early for him but he's a player we like and we're monitoring very closely. I think Phil, in particular, has been patient for his opportunity.

"We've taken our time with that but yeah Saka had a very good season with Arsenal, not in the team at the very end but really good season of progress and he's a player (we're) watching very closely."

The 18-year-old Saka had a great season for Arsenal and his four goals and twelve assists in 38 appearances back this up.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : arsenal.com