‘What an incredible talent’: Alan Shearer absolutely amazed by Arsenal star after display against West Ham
Alan Shearer has told Match of the Day (broadcast on BBC One; 26/12; 23:03) that Bukayo Saka was at the heart of everything Arsenal did in their dramatic win over West Ham, labelling the youngster an ‘incredible’ talent.
The Gunners picked up where they left off before the World Cup break. However, they had to fight their way to the three points after going a goal down during the first-half at the Emirates.
Saka had thought he had broken the deadlock with a superb finish before the break. However, the goal was ruled out for a well-spotted offside by the official.
Shearer amazed by Saka after Arsenal win
He would get on the scoresheet during the second-half however. Saka would produce a world-class first touch to control Martin Odegaard’s poor attempt on goal. And he would tuck the ball into the bottom corner.
That goal would inspire Arsenal’s comeback, with Gabriel Martinelli and Eddie Nketiah both going on to find the back of the net for Mikel Arteta’s men.
It was a stunning performance from Arsenal’s front four. And they were not alone. But Shearer suggested that it was the England international who really stole the show for the Premier League leaders.
“At the heart of everything was Saka. Who was going to stand up today without one of their main men, of course, in Jesus being injured? And it was Saka that did that. Everything he did. He’s such a gutsy personality, on top of his incredible ability,” he told Match of the Day.
“What an incredible talent he is. And it was always going to be who was going to stand up. And for me, he was the one there today.”
It is encouraging that Arsenal did not appear to miss a step. Obviously, they went behind against the Hammers. However, they have had to battle their way to some big points already this season.
It is almost more impressive that they were able to get the job done after the early setback. And Saka has picked up where he left off before the break.
He has 11 goal involvements in just 15 league games.
And anyone expecting Arsenal to immediately fall away following the World Cup is set for major disappointment.
