World Cup 2022 : Ex-Super Eagles defender expects huge role for Saka as England, France clash

England will face world champions France on Saturday evening in the last quarterfinals game of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar with Bukayo Saka expected to play huge role for the Three Lions. 

The Arsenal winger with a Nigerian background has scored three goals for England so far in the tournament, and has been named in the starting lineup against France.

Former Super Eagles defender Sam Sodje who played four games for Nigeria during his active days spoke with All Nigeria Soccer on what is expected of the Arsenal forward. 

"He's a young player and since he has been brought into the team he has improved, improved and improved," Sodje told allnigeriasoccer.com. 

Onetime Brentford central defender Sodje expects Saka to add his defensive nous to his primary attacking game for the Three Lions. 

"This World Cup he has played at a high level. The French team is a good side so I think he'll be tasked with defending as well.

"He will make a difference if he plays, he's a good player."

Overall, Saka has scored seven international goals in 23 appearances. The game kicks off 8pm Nigerian time. 

England were semifinalists in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and reached the final of the 2020 European Championship, losing to Italy. 

Izuchukwu Michael 

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