Neville’s Saka prediction comes true after Arsenal star’s withdrawal decision – Footymercato.com
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Gary Neville has proven to be spot on about Bukayo Saka after the Arsenal star pulled out of the England squad.
The 22-year-old was named in the Three Lions’ most recent squad for upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. However, it was announced that he was unavailable for selection after recent injury issues.
An FA statement confirmed: “Bukayo Saka has left the England camp and returned to his club for continued rehabilitation. The Arsenal forward reported to St. George’s Park with an injury and has been unable to participate in training. No further replacements are planned as a 25-man England squad continue their preparation for the forthcoming internationals with Brazil and Belgium.”
While Saka’s call was a surprise to some, the same cannot be said of Manchester United icon Gary Neville. He suggested that one of Arsenal, Liverpool or Manchester City’s key stars would back out of international duty to play a role in the Premier League title run-in.
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“I said it a couple of weeks ago, it would be interesting to see how many City, Arsenal and Liverpool players [are pulled out],” Neville said. “Already [Kevin] De Bruyne is out! I think it’s a really badly-placed international break, in the midst of a title run-in.
“I’ll make a prediction: either Declan [Rice], [Bukayo] Saka or [Phil] Foden will pull out of the second game, or they won’t play.”
Saka has been in sensational form for Arsenal this season. He has 16 goals and 13 assists for the Gunners this season in all competitions.
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Despite that, he has faced frustration on the international front. The 32-time England international was also forced to pull out of the Three Lions’ camp back in October due to injury.
He missed games against Australia and Italy – the latter of which saw them book their spot at this summer’s Euros with a 3-1 success. Speaking at the time, England boss Gareth Southgate said he was not willing to gamble with players’ fitness.
“We’ve got that responsibility of qualifying for the country, but I’ve been a player. I’ve never ever taken a risk on a player’s physical wellbeing, and nor would I,” he said. “They [Premier League clubs] have trust in us that we make decisions that are right for the long term whenever we can.”
Away from England, Arsenal will hope Saka can be fit sooner rather than later. The Gunners take on Manchester City after the international break in a game that could prove pivotal to the Premier League title race.
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