According to reports, Arsenal’s in-form winger Bukayo Saka is planned to start ahead of Phil Foden in England’s World Cup opening match against Iran on Monday.
What’s Happening?
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England started their World Cup campaign in Qatar on Monday against Iran in Group B, which includes England, Iran, the USA, and Wales. Coach Gareth Southgate will let Saka play against Carlos Queiroz’s side, according to The Telegraph. The 21-year-old will take the nod ahead of Manchester City’s Foden following a great start to the season which has seen him archive 5 goals and 6 assists for the table-topping Gunners.
The Bigger Picture
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Saka’s inclusion in the starting XI will be a deserved reward for his amazing start to the campaign with the red London club. The youngster also impacted the bench last time out for England. He arrived along with Mason Mount and saved the Three Lions in a 3-3 draw against Germany after being 2-0 down in the Nations League 2 months ago.
And What’s More?
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Southgate is expected to revert to a back four against Iran and hold Harry Maguire in central defense with John Stone. Kieran Trippier and Luke Shaw will reportedly be the two full-backs at the start. England’s coach will probably start Jude Bellingham in midfield alongside Declan Rice. Then Saka will be a part of an attack that features Mount, Raheem Sterling, and captain Harry Kane.
Did You Know?
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Since the beginning of last season, no player has assisted more goals directly following a carry in the Premier League than Saka (6). Arsenal brilliantly secured 1st place before the 2022 World Cup arrived partly thanks to his amazing performance in Premier League.
What Next For England?
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The Three Lions take on Iran and then match up with the United States on Friday.