“Glorious purpose” - Arsenal icon amazed by Bukayo Saka’s World Cup debut

Bukayo Saka has now scored six international goals since making his England debut in October
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Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has praised Bukayo Saka for his performance against Iran on Monday. England claimed a 6-2 win to go top of Group B.

Saka hadn’t even made his senior debut for the Gunners when the Three Lions were knocked out of the World Cup semi-finals in 2018, however he looks to be one of the country’s key men this time round. The 21-year-old paid off Gareth Southgate’s trust in him with a brace at the Khalifa International Stadium.

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Following the victory, Wright spoke to ITV. He said: “Saka’s second goal, I know I have been going on about Saka. But it’s just brilliant to see because of how tough it is.

“It was brilliant from Raheem (Sterling’s assist). It’s the composure. It’s the calmness. He’s blessed with a glorious purpose. To see him doing this.

“I didn’t think he was going to start. I thought they were going to start with [Phil] Foden, but they started with him and he’s showing what he can do. We all know what he can do.”

While many will have expected Foden to make up the front three alongside Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling, it was Saka that was handed his golden opportunity and it would be a huge surprise to see him benched against US after his spectacular brace.

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The clash with Iran was Saka’s first appearance in a major tournament since he missed a penalty in England’s defeat to Italy in the Euro 2020 final. The winger was clearly unphased by his previous disappointment and put on a superb performance to help earn the three points for the national team.

Fans had high expectations of Saka ahead of the tournament due to his excellent form for Arsenal. The youngster has picked up four goals and six assists in the Premier League this season and had no problem taking his impressive performances to Qatar with him.