After not playing a single minute for England in the semi-final against Argentina, Bukayo Saka answered back Thomas Tuchel in the best way possible.
Thomas Tuchel faced heavy criticism for leaving Bukayo Saka completely on the bench during England’s painful World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina.
However, the Arsenal winger responded in the best possible way when recalled for the third-place play-off. Unleashing his frustration on France in Miami, Saka put on a masterclass, netting a sensational hat-trick to power the Three Lions to a wild 6-4 victory.
His ruthless performance not only secured the bronze medal but also marked England’s best World Cup finish since 1966, proving exactly why he should never have been dropped.
England finish third! 🥉 Give us your reaction to a CRAZY game in Miami 👇
Officially England's best men's World Cup since 1966 👀
Bukayo Saka disappointed after England semi-final snub
Thomas Tuchel did indeed heavily imply that fitness and injury concerns were the reasons behind leaving Bukayo Saka on the bench for the semi-final.
However, Saka’s pointed “I’m fit” comment completely shattered that narrative.
Talking after the 6-4 win over France, the Arsenal man had this to say:
“Of course, I would love to have played more, but it’s too late to talk about that. I try to do my talking on the pitch and it’s done now, move on.
“I’m fit.”
It’s one of those decisions that is easy to criticise in hindsight, but it’s still confusing to think Morgan Rogers started on the right-hand side against Argentina after witnessing arguably the best performance from Saka in the quarter-final against Mexico.
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