ARSENAL STARLET Bukayo Saka, arguably the most talented teenager in the Premier League, has played a sensational role as England close in on Euro 2020 glory.

Saka, born in West London but of Nigerian descent, has played in three matches for the Three Lions and made telling contributions each time. His cross in the semi-final against Denmark led to England’s crucial equaliser as they fought back to reach the final against Italy on Sunday, July 11.

When England manager Gareth Southgate selected Saka for the match against the Danes it saw the young Gunner break an astonishing record by becoming the youngest England player to start a match at the semi-final stage or later of a major tournament.

His displays while on national service – having played less than 50 times for his club – have already provided signs that he will be another footballer with Nigerian blood to make his mark at the very highest level.

“What he’s done in the previous matches, he’s really embraced the challenge,” said the Three Lions boss of why he started Saka.

“We were really pleased with Jadon Sancho (against Ukraine) at the weekend, but for the balance against Denmark, we felt Bukayo was the right choice.”

Arsenal legend Ian Wright, providing expert analysis during Euro 2020 for ITV, said of Saka: “He’s progressed through, at 17 he went into the under 23s, he’s always played at a high level.

“He’s played for England since under-16s, he’s played at every level, he’s someone who hasn’t just arrived here. He was destined to do what he’s doing, playing big games like this. That’s why everyone at Arsenal knows what he’s capable of, and we’re seeing that now. The fact is, we’re talking about someone who joined Arsenal’s academy when he was like seven.”

Club manager, Mikel Arteta has also been fulsome in his praise of a player who has already proved his versatility. He told the club’s website: “Bukayo is doing really well and is always asking to train more and improve in areas that he can do better.

“He’s really humble, really respectful but at the same time he’s got that character within him and on the pitch he can demand the ball. He can make actions and decisions that is not very usual at his age.

“That’s something that is great because we need that leadership and he’s gaining that with his performances and attitude around the team.”