Thomas Frank, the head coach of Brentford, has revealed a strategy to neutralize Arsenal and England star Bukayo Saka. Saka has been a key player for Arsenal, contributing to 25 goals in 35 Premier League games last season and another 25 in 38 matches the previous season, when Arsenal narrowly missed out on the title to Manchester City. With Arsenal aiming for another title challenge, Frank’s insights could pose a challenge for them.
Frank’s Defensive Approach
Speaking as a pundit during Denmark’s Euro 2024 group game against England, which ended in a 1-1 draw, Frank shared his method to contain Saka: “We tried to double up on him. He’s the key player, we double up, close down his left foot. Let him go on his right if you can’t close him, so that’s the biggest thing.”
Rio Ferdinand’s Praise for Bukayo Saka
During the same coverage, former footballer Rio Ferdinand, who had faced criticism from Arsenal fans for doubting Saka’s world-class status, praised the player: “How can you not like him? You just warm to him. He’s a devastating player and an integral player to this [England] team. He’s one of the first names on the sheet in this team, no doubt.”
Bukayo Saka’s Versatility Highlighted
Ferdinand continued to commend Saka’s versatility and impact: “In the first game [against Serbia], outside of Jude Bellingham, he was my favourite player to watch. The variation in his play is what really excited me – the ability to go outside, to come inside, the unpredictability in his play and then the class.”
