'The Youngster Was Always Available On The Overlap' - How The Media Rated Saka's Performance In New Role For Arsenal

Published: December 26, 2019

Arsenal youngster Bukayo Saka was again deployed in the left back role Thursday evening by Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta in his first game in charge of the Gunners in their matchday 19 fixture against Bournemouth.

Saka played for 90 minutes at the Vitality Stadium and did put in a shift defensively albeit going forward his final balls were disappointing.

Adapting to the left back position according to ESPN was no issue for the Arsenal youngster.

"DF Bukayo Saka , 6 -- It may not be his first-choice position, but the 18-year-old looks more than comfortable at left-back," ESPN wrote.

"The youngster was always available on the overlap, and was the most reliable Gunner when it came to a final ball, although that wasn't saying much."

The Mirror gave Saka a 5 out of 10.

"Bukayo Saka 5.

"Played at left-back which seemed a waste the majority of his attacking talents. When he did get forward, his crossing let him down."

For Daily Star it was a 6/10 for the England youth international of Nigerian descent who may seek to play for the west African country at the senior level.

"Bukayo Saka - 6.

"Forced to fill in at left-back, looked to push forward but end product let him down."

Saka got a 6 from Football.London a widely read publication that covers London clubs in the Premier League.

"Bukayo Saka: The 18-year-old was very involved in the game both in and out of possession. Arsenal started most of their attacks down the left and looked to profit from him being so high but so did Bournemouth," the website went.

"Eventually the Cherries capitalised on this when Aubameyang misplaced a pass to Saka and went on to score. 6."

The Express were blunt with their assessment despite the player playing in an unfamiliar role.

"BUKAYO SAKA 5."

"Clearly out of his depth playing as a full-back in the Premier League."

Saka is expected to play again in the left back position on Sunday in the Super Sunday clash against fellow London side Chelsea.

Izuchukwu Okosi

Photo Credit : arsenal.com