Gareth Southgate has labelled Arsenal duo Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe as a ‘breath of fresh air’ on talkSPORT.
The England manager has hailed Mikel Arteta for giving the duo the opportunity to shine when previously there was ‘always this blockage’ for young English stars to shine.
Whilst Smith Rowe came into Arsenal’s first-team picture much later than Saka, the latter has been thriving since the start of last season and has been his side’s best player during this campaign.
Either way, both players have caught the eye of the England manager, who used them as a reference to English ‘talent’ being given a chance and stated that he is aware of them.
“When you think of the likes of Emile Smith Rowe, for example getting his opportunity at Arsenal,” said Southgate. “We know those kids are there. We know the talent is there.
“But, of course, when the buying and the spending power of the club is greater than anything around Europe. And the pressure is to have immediate success, it’s much easier and quicker to buy a finished product from abroad, who has a couple of seasons behind them.
“So there was always this blockage for young English players going in. Now, they’re getting their chance and showing [what they can do]
“The boys at Arsenal for example, Saka and Smith Rowe, have been a huge breath of fresh air in their team. There are more across the country if they get the opportunity.”
Saka is already an England international and given his continued rise, he will be expected to make the cut for the forthcoming internationals.
The same cannot be said for Smith Rowe, as of yet. Given the vast array of talent in his area, more than likely his chances will come after the Euros.
But with Southgate, who has provided numerous young players with chances, that opportunity might just come sooner rather than later.
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