England Starlet: The Young Players Look Up To Bukayo Saka

By The Editor
on 19th June 2024

Kobbie Mainoo speaks on Bukayo Saka’s influence…

England starlet Kobbie Mainoo has hailed the influence of Bukayo Saka on the younger players in the squad despite being just 22 years old himself, the Independent reports.

Saka is currently in the midst of his third international tournament and has already experienced extreme highs and lows for the national side.

The Arsenal man is now one of the generals of the senior side and was voted England’s Player of the Year in 2022 and 2023 as he looks to make up for the last Euros’ disappointment.

Mainoo and Adam Wharton are two of the inexperienced members of the squad who’ll need guidance, and the Manchester United man has made an effort to pick Saka’s brain.

“Yes, definitely,” Mainoo said when asked if the youngsters look up to Saka.

“He’s had a lot of experience, he’s been playing for England since he was young.

“To have him around and speak to him – he’s a great guy, he’s as nice as everyone says he is. It’s a joy to be around him.”

Speaking ahead of England’s second group game against Denmark as the Three Lions seek qualification, Saka made it clear that while he doesn’t view himself as an elder statesman, he wants to help the youngsters as much as he can.

“I think it’s about making everyone feel comfortable,” the Arsenal star told ITV.

“Making them feel included and creating an environment where they can express themselves and be confident because everyone is here because they’re exceptional at football.”

It will be interesting to see if Southgate throws Mainoo into the starting XI given how much Trent Alexander-Arnold struggled in midfield.

The Liverpool man hasn’t got experience in that position at the top level and often naturally drifted into a right-back area – causing an awkward occupation of space between Kyle Walker and Saka.