'Main threat': Theo Walcott blown away by truly 'positive' Arsenal player at Euro 2024

07/06/2024 03:45 PM

Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka was the star of the show for England as they overcame Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals.

The Gunners ace was a thorn in the opposition’s side all night, scored the equalising goal, and converted one of the penalties that put the Three Lions into the semi-finals.

Ahead of the game, there was some debate as to whether Saka should be at left-back for England, but the team news confirmed that he would be on the right side of attack.

It didn’t take long for the debate to be settled in favour of the status quo, as Saka delivered a masterclass for the Three Lions.

The Arsenal star was the saviour for England with a long-range effort in the 80th minute, restoring parity after Breel Embolo had put the Swiss in front five minutes earlier.

Saka weighed in with three efforts overall, made two key passes, completed four dribbles, whipped in nine crosses and three long balls, and was always a danger for the opposition.

In addition, the Gunners ace exorcised the demons of Euro 2020 by successfully converting his spot kick in the shootout, in which England scored all five of their penalties.

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Theo Walcott wowed by Bukayo Saka

At half time, Arsenal cult hero Theo Walcott was eager to sing Saka’s praises.

“He kept us guessing, and what he’s doing right now, he’s keeping his full-back guessing,” he said on BBC One.

“You don’t know if he’s going to come inside, outside, and as well they need to double up on him a lot more.

“When you get tight on Bukayo Saka, he can just roll you, he’s so positive in his mind.

“He’s literally playing to his strengths and that’s what you want to see more of… he’s our main threat.”

What's next for England at Euro 2024?

England beat Switzerland 5-3 on penalties after coming from behind to draw 1-1 after 90 minutes, with no further goals in extra time.

Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Saka, Ivan Toney and Trent Alexander-Arnold all converted their spot kicks.

Meanwhile, Manuel Akanji's missed effort ensured that Alexander-Arnold's strike was decisive in putting England into the semi-finals.

Gareth Southgate's charges are next in action on Wednesday night, facing either Turkey or the Netherlands in Dortmund.