Graeme Souness has written in The Times that Bukayo Saka, Kieran Tierney, Joe Willock and Emile Smith Rowe are not good enough to make the backbone of an Arsenal team that can win the Premier League title.
The Liverpool legend does not seem to think that winger Saka, left-back Tierney, midfielder Willock – now on loan at Newcastle United – and attacking midfielder Smith Rowe can lead Arsenal to the title.
The Gunners last won the Premier League in 2004 and may not even finish in the top four this season.
Souness wrote in The Times: “No disrespect to any of this quartet, but it would take a brave man to state that Bukayo Saka, Kieran Tierney, Joseph Willock and Emile Smith Rowe can form the backbone of a championship-winning side or even one that consistently makes the top four.”
Harsh comments?
Saka is only 19, and the winger has already shown what he is capable of, having established himself as a key player in manager Mikel Arteta’s side.
Even Tottenham Hotspur defender Eric Dier has been impressed by his England international teammate, who can also operate as a left-back.
True, Willock was sent out on loan to Newcastle in the January transfer window, but Smith Rowe is a very creative player and is only 20.
As for Tierney, the Scotland international is one of the best left-backs in the Premier League and has been a success at the Gunners since his move from Celtic, despite his injury problems.
Arsenal will not win the Premier League with these young players next season, but in due time, they could, if they make other additions to the team.
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