Recent footage of Bukayo Saka excelling at left-back for Arsenal has fueled the debate initiated by Ian Wright and Gary Neville regarding his potential position shift for England in the upcoming Euro 2024 last-16 match.
Both football pundits suggest that England manager Gareth Southgate should consider playing Saka at left-back, a position he has performed well in previously, due to his left-footed prowess.
Saka has been a key player on the right wing in all three of England’s group stage matches. However, Wright and Neville argue that utilizing Saka’s natural left-sided abilities could benefit the team, especially given the current injury of Luke Shaw and the use of right-footed Kieran Trippier at left-back.
Wright highlighted on ITV that Saka began his career on the left side at both youth and senior levels for Arsenal, implying a switch could enhance England’s balance and overall performance.
“If that’s going to give you the balance and get you Cole Palmer in the team, it’s something you have to at least look at. Yes, Kyle Walker can play there [at left-back], it’s the same situation where you have the player coming inside, you have no one going around. He’s a natural left-footer Saka, we could activate the whole left side,” Wright explained.
Neville supported Wright’s view, suggesting a formation that includes Saka at left-back and Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back.
“I think that it would be brilliant to see Bukayo Saka at left-back but I think Gareth Southgate won’t do that,” Neville said.
He noted that while Southgate is likely to opt for more conventional choices like Walker and Trippier, the inclusion of a naturally left-footed player like Saka could prove advantageous.
Rio Ferdinand also echoed this sentiment on his Vibe with Five podcast, suggesting Saka as a viable option if Shaw remains unfit.
“If Shaw’s not fit then 100 per cent, we’re bang in trouble,” Ferdinand remarked, advocating for Saka to cover the left-back position, with his defensive capabilities transitioning seamlessly into attacking plays once possession is gained.
The debate over Saka’s best position is part of a broader discussion on England’s tactical flexibility as they aim for glory in Euro 2024. With Saka’s demonstrated versatility, many believe his deployment at left-back could be a strategic masterstroke by Southgate as England prepares for the knockout stages of the tournament.
