Bukayo Saka is back and impressing for Arsenal after an injury absence and someone who has worked with the Englishman has revealed one thing he was shocked by
Joleon Lescott speaks on In The Mixer
Joleon Lescott was taken aback by one aspect of Bukayo Saka's game
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Joleon Lescott was taken aback by Bukayo Saka's "insane" decision-making. The 24-year-old is a key component of Arsenal's title charge this season.
Saka joined the Gunners' academy ranks at the age of seven and the rest is history. He was handed his first-team debut in 2018 and is now undoubtedly one of Arsenal's standout stars.
One of the Premier League's finest forward talents was sidelined through injury earlier this campaign thanks to a hamstring issue but is back helping his team as they aim to claim the top-flight crown after three consecutive runner-up finishes.
Saka is renowned for his attacking prowess but one awe-inspiring aspect of his game goes somewhat under the radar according to Lescott, who has long worked in and around England's senior and youth teams.
"When I was working with the England squad I thought he was world-class because his decision-making is so spot on," said Lescott, speaking on In The Mixer, brought to you by Sky Bet.
Bukayo Saka scores for England
Lescott was in awe of Saka's abilities for England
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"I've never met someone that young, a player who whatever he's supposed to do, he will do it. His decision-making is insane. Like if you give him down the line it's, 'I'm gonna cross with my right foot.'
"If you cut inside and there's a shot on or a cross on it's, 'I'm gonna do it. I'm not gonna think, let me just change this or I'm gonna get bored going down the line or I'm getting bored going inside.'
"It's like, 'No.' If you give him that option, that is the outcome. I was so impressed by his technique fundamentally. It's underrated. Definitely underrated how clean he is."
The star wide player penned a long-term deal with his boyhood club in May 2023 but this contract is set to expire in 2027 and he has not yet agreed to a renewal.
Despite a lack of news surrounding Saka's negotiations, head coach Arteta is confident that it is only a matter of time before the 24-year-old commits his future to Arsenal.
Saka shakes hands with Arteta
Saka is a key part of Arteta's squad
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"I prefer that word, I think it is confidence," Arteta said. "What Bukayo has transmitted to me and the club, and his agent Emeka [Obasi] as well is that they want to continue to be here.
"It's a very healthy and powerful relationship. The journey that he has had at the club and what he has become is something we want to maintain. That is something that is going to leave a legacy at this club and he needs to fulfil that role."
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