Arsenal - Jamie Redknapp
Image credit: Getty Images
Jamie Redknapp has lavished praise on Bukayo Saka after the Arsenal forward delivered a man-of-the-match performance in the Gunners’ emphatic 5-2 victory over West Ham on Saturday.
Saka played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s dominant display, assisting Gabriel Magalhaes for the opening goal just 10 minutes into the London derby. Arsenal seized control early, with Leandro Trossard doubling the lead, Martin Ødegaard scoring from the penalty spot after Saka was fouled, and Kai Havertz finishing a blistering counterattack to make it 4-0 by the 36th minute.
West Ham briefly fought back, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Emerson Palmieri scoring in quick succession. Emerson’s stunning free-kick gave the Hammers a glimmer of hope, but Saka restored Arsenal’s dominance by converting a penalty in first-half stoppage time, sealing the final scoreline.
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The Gunners expertly controlled the second half, maintaining their advantage to secure three points and move back into second place in the Premier League table. The victory marked a return to form after a recent dip.
Saka’s contribution was immense, bringing his tally to 10 assists in just 12 league appearances this season. Redknapp, speaking on Sky Sports, was full of admiration for the 22-year-old forward.
Bukayo Saka - Arsenal
Bukayo Saka (Image credit: Getty Images)
“He’s an incredible role model,” Redknapp said. “So intelligent, so eloquent, and he knows the game inside out. He comes across as a fine young man—it must be a dream for any manager to have a player like him.
“The improvement he’s making every day is frightening. He can score goals, he can create goals, he’s got great desire, and he’s so difficult to defend against.”
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Saka’s playmaking form has sparked comparisons to Premier League greats. The current record for most assists in a single Premier League campaign is 20, held jointly by Thierry Henry (2002-03) and Kevin De Bruyne (2019-20). With his early-season form, Saka appears well-positioned to challenge that milestone.
Despite his stellar performance, Saka remained focused on the team’s objectives. When asked about the upcoming Liverpool-Manchester City clash at Anfield, he avoided making predictions.
“What will be, will be. We have to do our thing, they have to play, and let’s just enjoy the game,” Saka said.
Arsenal’s next challenge comes against Manchester United at the Emirates next weekend. United, undefeated since the departure of Erik ten Hag, will provide a stern test, but with Saka in such scintillating form, Arsenal will feel confident in their ability to extend their unbeaten run.
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