Ian Wright has lauded the consistency of Bukayo Saka and insists the Arsenal star must now be considered ‘undroppable’ by England manager Gareth Southgate.
Saka ended the season nursing an injury that ruled him out of the Gunners’ final game of the campaign against Everton.
The 22-year-old was back at his best, however, on Sunday as the Three Lions began their Euro 2024 campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Serbia.
It was Saka’s cross that created the only goal of a tight contest for Jude Bellingham and enhanced his already impressive goal involvement record for his country.
Despite his continued excellence, Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand suggested earlier this week that Southgate should consider deploying Saka at left-back to help address several glaring issues in the England starting XI.
Wright, however, believes it is imperative that Saka is allowed to operate in his strongest position.
He told ITV Sport: ‘What we’re seeing with Saka, with 27 goal involvements in 24 games, this guy is undroppable for England and Arsenal.
‘When people are talking about whether he’s world-class, is he this or that, it’s irrelevant. He’s going to continue to do his talking on the pitch like he says and that’s what we want.
‘His consistency is off the charts even playing with injuries during the season he had to be nursed through I’m so proud of him and so pleased for him.’
Saka’s partnership, meanwhile, with England’s new vice-captain Kyle Walker, was a big feature of the win over Serbia.
The pair dovetailed superbly and the Three Lions’ right flank and Saka is confident there is more to come from them against Denmark.
‘It’s a joy to play with him,’ said Saka. ‘He’s so solid and he’s someone I can trust in. He communicates a lot, especially out of position and I’m always clear where I need to be.
‘Going forward, he’s a machine. You saw that counter-attack we had, he was flying, I just put the ball there.
‘I know he’s going to win the race so I just put it in front of him and left him to run. It’s a pleasure to play with him and he gives me a lot of confidence.
‘The first half, I was happy. I managed to get into good positions, dribbling, running in behind to affect the game and creating some chances for my teammates.
‘I’m enjoying playing football. However the opposition set up, you have to find a way to break it down.’