There might not be a more popular man of the moment in the England squad than the latest, Bukayo Saka.
‘Too happy for this guy,’ posted Jadon Sancho on Instagram, reflecting on Saka’s thrilling man-of-the-match display against the Czech Republic.
‘You deserve everything brother,’ added Declan Rice. ‘He’s tough, funny, gets on with everyone. I’m buzzing for him,’ said match-winner Raheem Sterling.
Bukayo Saka showcased his talent as he starred in England's win over the Czech Republic
Such genuine joy at his success would have been felt by almost anyone who has encountered Saka. At 19, the first Three Lions teenager to start a Euros game since Wayne Rooney in 2004 is England’s humble hero.
His wide-ranging versatility became increasingly clear since he broke into Arsenal’s first-team in 2018. He carried them at times last season despite his tender years and was unsurprisingly named their player of the season.
What also helps make him so popular is that there is no big ego despite the size of his considerable talent. In fact, quite the opposite.
Speak to anyone about Saka and it will not be long before his down-to-earth nature, the fact that he takes everything in his stride, and the role his parents have played in his upbringing by instilling the right values, get mentioned.
Saka was England's standout player and got huge praise from his team-mates for his display
Indeed, on Tuesday, just a few hours after his big night at Wembley, Saka was already focusing on what comes next.
At Arsenal, he is described as a breath of fresh air. He is the perfect poster boy for their academy. At times he has left staff questioning if it is really possible for someone to have it all.
Not only is he seen model player but model student and person too.
Before the Covid-19 pandemic hit Saka surprised club staff by volunteering to help out with some of the club’s community activities.
Off his own back, Saka was keen to set up a call with the club and his parents to see how they could be of assistance and aid Arsenal’s work in the local area.
The Arsenal ace's versatility and professionalism has caught the eye of Gareth Southgate
The pandemic, which has affected what the club can do, has hit those plans for now but Saka has let them know he remains keen for those discussions to still go ahead so he can get involved when the time is right.
That gesture is a sign of the pride Saka has in representing Arsenal.
He joined the club aged seven, was always one of the best players of his age for club and country with Saka and Man City’s midfielder Tommy Doyle the two tipped for big things by FA staff.
Arsenal coaches loved
