Arsenal Invincible Keown Sees Versatile Youngster Saka As A Long-Term Left-Back

Arsenal Invincible Martin Keown sees Nigeria-eligible youngster Bukayo Saka as a long-term left-back.

Predominantly a winger, the England U19 international has been deployed at left-back in his last eight matches in all tournaments due to the injury enforced absence of experienced duo Sead Kolašinac and Kieran Tierney.

Against Bournemouth in the fourth round of the Emirates FA Cup on Monday night, Saka gave Arsenal a flying start, netting his third of the season after combination play with Gabriel Martinelli, before setting up Eddie Nketiah for the second goal of the game.

Speaking as a pundit on BT Sport, Keown said : "The thing with Saka as well is he's a winger effectively. Kolašinac is injured and it's by chance this has happened, he's getting his opportunity and he has taken it."

Asked if Saka can keep his place at left-back going forward, the former Gunners defender answered : "Without doubt, this is the thing now.I think they want youth players in there with energy, who really love the football club.

"They are going back to their roots with Arteta. The way they play the game with Wenger, with Guardiola - great exponents of the passing game. That little, intricate movement with Saka on the left, you have seen that at Barcelona and with City".

Saka has been involved in 22 games across all competitions for Arsenal's first team this term and has provided six assists in addition to his three goals.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : arsenal.com