Jamie Carragher is delighted to hear that Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka and Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham will start England’s World Cup opener against Iran on Monday.
The former Liverpool defender added ‘it had to be’ Saka starting for England because of his pace and how he is of help to Tottenham’s Harry Kane.
Whilst many wouldn’t have doubted Bellingham starting England’s World Cup opener given the lack of options in the middle of the park and his ridiculous talent, there was a debate to be had about Saka on the flanks, despite his strong form for Arsenal.
Gareth Southgate is blessed in that department and he has a plethora of attacking options to pick from, including England’s best player at Euro 2020 Raheem Sterling, a player dubbed ‘generational’ in Phil Foden and £100 million superstar in Jack Grealish.
But the Three Lions boss has opted to push for Saka against Iran and Carragher has backed that idea, as he told Sky Sports.
“I would have started both of those players (Saka and Bellingham),” said Carragher. “I felt it would be 4-3-3 v Iran and I felt you had to go for Saka in that game because of the pace, alongside Harry Kane, because he needs players with pace and who make penetrating runs in behind.
“And the fact that he is in such good form playing in a team like Arsenal, who are top of the table. I think it had to be Saka.
“I think Bellingham is one of the first names on the team sheet, even though he is an England regular now. I think it would be difficult to pick an England team with anybody without putting him in the team.”
SAKA’S TIME TO SHINE
The 21-year-old is shining bright on the domestic stage and he more than deserves this call to start in a front three for his country at a World Cup.
Not many get to play at the highest level, not many get to represent their country, fewer get to rep their country at a major tournament and even fewer people get to start for their country at a major tournament.
Well, Saka, at such a young age, is going to experience all of that and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he cooks at this winter World Cup because his talents are calling out for it.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
