Bukayo Saka celebrates England call-up with goal against Blades
Teen breaks the deadlock as Gunners beat Blades ahead of international break
Arsenal's Bukayo Saka celebrated his first call-up to England's senior squad with a crucial goal for his club, breaking the deadlock in a 2-1 win against Sheffield United with a superb header to cap off an eventful week for the teenager.
England manager Gareth Southgate has included him in the squad for upcoming games against Wales, Belgium and Denmark, and Saka admitted he would not have much time to celebrate his goal yesterday as he rushes to link up with the Three Lions.
"All the things happening to me, I feel so blessed - the England call-up, and then today with the goal," the 19-year-old told Sky Sports.
ARSENAL | SHEFFIELD UNITED |
2 | 1 |
(Bukayo Saka 61, Nicolas Pepe 64) | (David McGoldrick 83) |
After a frustrating opening hour in which Arsenal failed to create much of note, Saka scored with a well-placed far-post header to give his side the lead, much to the delight of Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.
"I'm trying to do my best. Anytime the boss picks me, it's for a reason. He has confidence in me, so I try to repay the faith and trust that he puts in me," Saka said.
The defeat was Sheffield United's fourth league loss in a row, but their current poor run of form did not mean that Saka and Arsenal were going to take them lightly.
"We gave so much credit to Sheffield because they are such a good side. They made it really difficult for us today, so we're just happy to get the win," he said.
Asked if he was going to celebrate, the young winger smiled broadly.
"I'll try - I don't have enough time, obviously I'm off to the international (squad) tomorrow morning," he said.
With the transfer window closing tomorrow morning (Singapore time), Arteta said: "I'm really happy with the players that I have... Whatever we can add, of course we will try to do it but we have to be realistic." - REUTERS
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