Ian Wright responded to the criticism from Arsenal fans for his comments on Bukayo Saka.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright bullishly brushed off the blowback from Arsenal fans over his suggestion that Bukayo Saka should play at left-back for the English national team.
What happened
Saka celebrating his equaliser || X
With the English national team barely trundling through the group stage, Gareth Southgate’s set-up was criticised by many, and for others like Ian Wright, possible solutions were proffered.
The former striker suggested that Saka, one of the best right-wingers in the Premier League, be deployed at left-back to accommodate Chelsea’s Cole Palmer at right wing.
This incensed many Arsenal fans, who viewed Wright’s comments as disrespectful to Saka. For some, it was seen as a betrayal from the club legend. Saka himself addressed the comment from Wright, explaining that playing at full-back would not solve England’s problems.
Saka kept his place on the right wing in the quarter-final clash against Switzerland, and he went on to have a Man of the Match performance with a stunning left-foot curler to boot. Following the game, he sent a clear message to his detractors, gesturing that they talked too much and captioned it “blah blah.”
Wright’s response
Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer
Ian Wright was questioned about the stern pushback by Arsenal fans over his suggestion that Saka be deployed at left-back, and he stated clearly that he was not bothered by what the fans said.
Wright is as big as they come in the pantheon of Arsenal greats. He had 288 appearances for the Gunners, and until Henry snatched the record from him in 2005, Wright was the all-time top scorer for the North London club with 185 goals.
His legendary status, however, could not earn him a pass from Arsenal fans, who will not have their current stars disrespected, even if it comes from a hero’s past Ballgist reports.
