Gareth Southgate heaped great praise on Bukayo Saka for becoming a 'ruthless' finisher despite initial doubt over his ability in final third. The 21-year-old provided the cross for Harry Kane, who put the Three Lions ahead at Wembley, before he doubled his country's lead just minutes later with a wonderful strike from range.
He has featured 28 times for Arsenal in the Premier League this season, scoring 12 goals - one more than last term with 10 fewer games under his belt. Saka has also managed to translate his eye-catching performances on to the international stage, scoring four goals in his previous seven caps for the Three Lions.
Speaking to Channel Four after England's win over Ukraine, Southgate appreciated the Hale End graduate's hard work having once had doubts over his quality in front of goal. The 52-year-old said: "You know that when he cuts in [that type of goal] is possible
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"We’d got him away well in one-v-one’s - a few times we’d crowded his space a little bit - but once he receives inside and gets turns you know there’s a chance that this might happen. It’s a top-level finish, that’s really the ruthless part I think he’s added to his game in the last 18 months or so.
"There were times you weren’t certain he was going to finish and now you’ve got real confidence when he’s through on goal," Southgate added. The England boss was then quizzed on the mentality of Saka and Jude Bellingham - two of the squad's youngest, but more important, players.
"It’s the mentality that is the outstanding part," Southgate said. "Quality is obviously the technical part, that’s obvious when you’re watching the games, but these two boys have got the humility.
"They want to learn, they’ve worked unbelievably hard for the team, totally reliable and they’re a joy to work with really."
Also speaking on Channel Four, Joe Cole discussed Saka's future in the England starting lineup and how Marcus Rashford hands Southgate a selection dilemma. The former Chelsea midfielder said: "Huge competition for places now.
"Harry Kane is obviously the No.9, Saka’s form - he just doesn’t stop - so he’s secured his place on the right, and then Rashford gives you a different option to [Jack] Grealish, [Phil] Foden gives you a different option and [James] Maddison, they can all play central as well.
"This squad, at this level with this quality around you in England, someone can come in and take your shirt. You were always taught as players you play for the shirt, but you’re playing for the next game as well.
"Rashford’s definitely in the question because of his quality and what he’s doing at Manchester United but if you miss squads there are players that will come in and take your place. It’s a great position for Gareth to be in, we’re so well-stocked in them forward areas."
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