Bukayo Saka has become a key figure for England’s next generation. And Saka’s growing influence in the national team is marking him down as a leader and potential captain material.....CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
But what went under the radar was that Saka was introduced into England’s unofficial leadership group during the last Euros. England defender
Kyle Walker, who was vice-captain in Germany, revealed that Saka was part of the five man player group. Harry Kane, Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham – together with Walker – were on the committee who are effectively a bridge between the dressing room and the management. That was the style under Gareth Southgate and there is no suggestion that will change quickly under new interim boss Lee Carsley.
Saka – nicknamed “Saks” among the other players – was seen as the conduit between the younger players and seniors together with the management and staff.
Saka is a hugely popular figure, known for a his smile and personality as he is something of a joker and character who even set up his own spelling quizzes during the Qatar World Cup. That prompted the elevation to the leadership group during the Euros and that may be even more important under Carsley.
Much-loved by his team-mates, Saka is a vital part of the Three Lions dressing room Carsley, who has worked as England’s under-21 boss, put Angel Gomes, Levi Colwill, Tino Livramento, Rico Lewis, Morgan Gibbs-White, Noni Madueke, Anthony Gordon and Cole Palmer, who has since withdrawn, in his first squad
for the Nations League fixtures with Republic of Ireland and Finland. They have all graduated through the FA pathway at St George’s Park while Kobbie Mainoo emerged as a huge star at the Euros.
Manchester United midfielder Mainoo is now established in the senior England set-up but Saka is already seen as someone that generation look up to within the camp.
Saka has worn the armband for Arsenal on occasion and is now seen as a popular figure at the Emirates and a hero among the fans. He has also been a trailblazer at Arsenal by fronting up community campaigns and being seen as the face of Mikel Arteta’s team as well as being one of England’s biggest stars. That influence is only likely to grow with Carsley championing young players during his six games in charge which is effectively an audition through the Nations League campaign.
Carsley will rely on youth and Saka now heads up that generation while Chelsea star Palmer is also likely to get a bigger role under the interim boss in future squads.
Temporary England boss Carsley is a big believer in Palmer and his ability Palmer admitted during the Euros that he got frustrated at times because he was not a starter and was a regular substitute, even coming off the bench and scoring against Spain in the final.
Palmer, 22, who grew up at Manchester City’s academy, has also become a star on and off the pitch for England because of a connection with a new generation of fans. He is known for his goal celebration – rubbing his arms to keep warm to mimic his nickname of being known as Cold Palmer – but also for being a player of few words.
And despite being a reluctant star and shunning the limelight, kids like his social media posts and the fact that he is understated and Generation Z see him as one of their own.
Incredibly, his figures on social media – in terms of views and likes and reposts – make him even more popular than the likes of Real Madrid star Bellingham and Kane. Now, England’s own next generation are ready to centre stage under Carsley – and beyond….CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLE>>>
