Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette claims that Bukayo Saka is the best young player in the Premier League, per The Metro.
What’s the word?
Saka has become something of a first-team regular this season, making 26 appearances in all competitions, including 17 in the Premier League.
Still just 18, the teenager has scored three goals and registered nine assists, despite playing in a number of roles, including on the left wing and at left-back.
And Lacazette, who has scored eight goals in all competitions this season, believes that Saka is the best youngster in the top-flight.
He said: “He’s really good. I think he’s maybe the best young player in the league.
“Like I said, he needs to improve in a few things but you can see the quality he has and he’s humble.
“The best thing for him is to be involved. He wants to work, he accepts criticism because he wants to improve.”
Can you get full marks on the Ultimate Arsenal Quiz? Test your knowledge below…
Being trusted
Mikel Arteta clearly sees something in Saka.
The Gunners boss has given him 90 minutes in the top-flight on five separate occasions since his appointment in December and appears to have nailed down his position.
Indeed, in the Premier League under the Spaniard, the England U19 international has played exclusively as a left-back.
Arteta has reaped the rewards of that, with Saka providing an assist in each of the club’s last two outings.
While it may be hyperbolic to claim that he is the best of his age group in the league, he is being given a chance in the starting XI and has grabbed it with both hands.
From an Arsenal perspective, long may it continue.
Meanwhile, Arteta has revealed his long-term plans for Joe Willock!
