Bukayo Saka soars to new heights, according to Arsenal's Mikel Arteta

LONDON – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta found a silver lining in his team going a goal down to struggling Southampton as it sparked a brilliant performance from winger Bukayo Saka. Saka scored one goal and provided two assists in their 3-1 English Premier League home win on Oct 5, showcasing his tremendous talent and potential.

Arteta described the Saints’ goal as a wake-up call before praising the 23-year-old Saka for his ability to deliver when his team needed him the most.

“I think he’s another step ahead in what he wants, and especially when (he does it) – do it at home, do it away, do it in big games, do it in not-so-big games when the team needs it, do it also when it’s 3-0 – that’s what defines a top, top player,” the Spaniard said.

“Obviously, there are the stats, and you cannot get away from that. What he’s doing at his age is unbelievable, we have many examples of that as well.”

Despite his relative youth, Saka has become arguably Arsenal’s most important attacking fulcrum.

“That’s the maturity and that’s the steps that players have to go (through). He has been long enough in the team now and he has earned the right to have that role, he believes in that and has the capacity to change games,” Arteta added.

The Gunners boss was also full of praise for German forward Kai Havertz, who fired home a Saka pass to make it seven home games in a row in which he has scored.

“He’s an attacking midfielder, he plays as a nine, you don’t know where he is – that’s his football brain,” Arteta said.

“And for sure, his focus now as well is ‘I’m gonna win the game, I’m gonna do it’. He’s practising and he wants more, he’s not satisfied with what he’s doing, because there is still another level from him.”

Arteta’s side were rocked by Cameron Archer’s shock opener for the winless visitors early in the second half at the Emirates Stadium.

But Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli struck in quick succession to restore order, before Saka wrapped up Arsenal’s fifth win in seven league games.

After finishing as runners-up to Manchester City for the last two years, the Gunners are again in contention for their first title since 2004.

Saka last week said he expects Arsenal to finally lift the Premier League trophy this season.

They sit in third place, one point behind leaders Liverpool, after extending their unbeaten run to 10 matches in all competitions. , AFP