Southgate full of praise for Arsenal pair Saka, Smith Rowe | OneFootball

Southgate full of praise for Arsenal pair Saka, Smith Rowe | OneFootball

Icon: Tribal Football

Tribal Football

·2 March 2021

Southgate full of praise for Arsenal pair Saka, Smith Rowe

Article image:Southgate full of praise for Arsenal pair Saka, Smith Rowe

England coach Gareth Southgate is delighted with the progress of Arsenal pair Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka.

Saka, 19, has four senior caps while 20-year-old Smith Rowe is yet to be included in a squad and will face competition from Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Mason Mount amongst others.


OneFootball Videos


Southgate told talkSPORT: "Emile Smith Rowe getting his opportunity at Arsenal.

“We know those kids are there and we know the talent is there, but when the buying and spending power of the clubs is greater than anything around Europe, and the pressure is on to have immediate success, it is easier to go and buy the finished product from abroad.

"There was always this blockage for young English players, now they're getting their chance. Those two boys at Arsenal, Saka and Smith Rowe, have been a huge breath of fresh air in their team and there are more across the country if they get their opportunity."

View publisher imprint