Lee Dixon told ITV (05/09, 22:52) that he expects Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka will develop into an ‘absolute superstar’ after impressing for England against Andorra on Sunday night.
The Gunners product marked his 11th Three Lions cap with a goal and an assist as Gareth Southgate’s side won their World Cup qualifying tie 4-0. Saka had not scored during a competitive international fixture before the Wembley encounter and only assisted once.
It was from Saka’s instinctive run and dangerous delivery that Simon Kjaer scored an own goal as England beat Denmark at Euro 2020. The 20-year-old was again an attacking threat for Southgate on Sunday, remaining bright and confident throughout.
Dixon claims Saka’s runs caused Andorra issues, and that the Arsenal forward had the end product to match for England. The Gunners icon also praised how the London-born winger is performing at such a level, despite his young age.
“You forget what an age [Saka is performing like he is at],” Dixon said. “He was basically one of the two who carried the Arsenal team last season. For such a young player, everybody was looking at him to change a game, to win a game.
“And he’s come into the England side – certainly in the Euros – he was the one that got the ball. And today, we saw he’s got a pass, he’s got a cross, he’s got the ability to take players on and commit players. He’s going to be an absolute superstar, I’m pretty sure of that.”
Arsenal star Saka deserved Dixon’s praise after England performance
Saka certainly deserved Dixon’s praise after the Arsenal forward capped a creative display for England with a goal and assist. Sunday’s affair marked his first return to Wembley since the Euro 2020 final. But he did not let the summer’s frustrations impact his performance.
The Hale End graduate could even have ended the game with two assists to show for his efforts, as well. Jesse Lingard fired home the first of his double after Andorra could only half-clear Saka’s delivery.
Saka came close to also striking a brace, with the ball flicking off Jesus Rubio and denying the Arsenal ace Dixon praises more goals in one game than in 10 previous appearances.
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