Bukayo Saka’s texts from Freddie Ljungberg after England goal before Euro 2020
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Bukayo Saka received a message of support from Arsenal legend Freddie Ljungberg after scoring his first England goal.
Saka, who was a surprise inclusion in Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad for the European Championships, laid down his claim for a place in the team with a man-of-the-match performance against Austria last week.
The 19-year-old Arsenal star played as a forward at the Riverside and showed his attacking instincts to excellent effect, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win.
His performance brought praise from plenty across the media landscape – but it was the response of Gunners legend Ljungberg that Saka chose to single out above the rest.
Saka revealed Ljungberg sent him a text after the match praising him for his goal and offering some advice ahead of the Euros.
He said: "He texted me the other day when I scored. He wrote: 'Congratulations, and make sure you pack a few things that you would do at home and that will keep yourself entertained'.”
The youngster credits much of his development to Ljungberg, who was a prominent coach in Arsenal’s youth set-up and briefly took over as caretaker manager in 2019 before leaving the Emirates for good.
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“He has been really good with me,” Saka said of the Swdede. “From 14, when he took over my development, he challenged me in a way other coaches didn't. He pushed me and saw my potential in a way other coaches didn't.
“All the way to the under-23s he was still pushing me and even in the first team he was still helping me, even until today. He has had a big influence on my career.
“He says different things. Because he was a winger himself he had a lot of experience himself and learning points to give me.
“It is not just the football side, he is a man who helps me with my personal life as well. He is such a top guy and I really appreciate that message from him.”
Saka may have impressed against Austria, but it’s unlikely to be enough to earn him a starting spot against Croatia.
England have plenty of attacking options to choose from, meaning the Arsenal star will likely have to be content with a place on the bench.
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