Versatile Saka takes a backward step

ANOTHER night, another string weaved on to the bow of Bukayo Saka. Another step towards this summer’s Euros? Perhaps not. In this woeful Arsenal season, the 19-year-old has been a rare spark. And as the campaign limps towards its anti-climax, Saka is one of few Gunners players with more than pride on the line. UEFA’s decision to allow 26-man squads this summer may have jarred with Gareth Southgate but for players like Saka it left the door ajar. Shame, then, that at Chelsea the teenager was shifted to right wing-back. It wasn’t a gamble that did his chances any good. Southgate will name his squad in 12 days and for those teetering on the fringes, chances to make their case are running low. And unfortunately for Saka this also represented another venture into pastures new. He has spent most of this season swapping between left and right wing, he has been used centrally and, in the recent win over West Brom, Saka excelled at left back. At Stamford Bridge came his first taste of right wing-back. It is testament to his tactical intelligence and positional awareness that Saka has slotted in so seamlessly across the pitch. That versatility could also prove his biggest weapon come decision time for Southgate. But England are stacked with young, dangerous right backs and last night did little to suggest Saka will replace them. Arsenal fans will allow him a quiet night after such a fine campaign. But with time running out — and such fierce competition for places — will Southgate be so forgiving?