Arsenal: 3 reasons Bukayo Saka should start for England vs Germany

3. Bukayo Saka Can be Trusted to Defend for England

Phil Foden is the standout option for England, and arguably the one Saka is vying against most to be starting on Tuesday.

Jadon Sancho would be involved in that debate but for some alarming reason known only to Southgate, he is remarkably overlooked.

Considering England aren’t likely to see much of the ball against a midfield of Joshua Kimmich, Toni Kroos and Ilkay Gundogan, they will need wingers who will not only track back but hold their own deep in their own half.

There are no wide forwards in the England squad as defensively capable and disciplined as Saka. Having played in every position there is on a football pitch, a fair chunk of his job will be in some form of right wing-back slot.

His work rate is second to none – as it will be for any England player in this situation as nobody is not going to give 100%, let’s not pretend he’s alone in that – and his versatility and ability to assume multiple positions over the course of a single match should elevate his chances of starting at Wembley.

That tactical flexibility and seamless transition into different shapes and roles will be essential to England who will need their wide players to cover the full-backs and still aim to retain the ball higher up the pitch.

Saka is the man. And, whatever happens on Tuesday, he’s done himself and the Arsenal community so proud.