Gary Neville thinks Bukayo Saka has done one thing that no England player has ever managed

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Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has now made a claim about Arsenal star Bukayo Saka after his latest international exploits. 

Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka was the difference-maker for England last night as they secured passage to the semi-finals of Euro 2024 with a triumph over Switzerland.

Despite being deployed in a right-wing-back role, the 22-year-old was still able to get forward, and clearly had the beating of his opponents, as he was consistently able to get past his man and deliver balls into the box from out wide.

Stan Collymore urged Saka to keep going down the outside, but in the second half, with England in need of an equaliser, the Hale End academy graduate ignored this advice. Having been given the ball out wide by fellow Arsenal star Declan Rice, Saka cut inside onto his favoured left foot and picked out the corner from range with a delightful strike. 

His goal ultimately meant that a penalty shootout was required to separate the two sides. Saka was able to put some demons to rest with his successful spot kick, having missed in the shootout that decided the Euro 2020 final. England legend David Beckham was quick to congratulate Saka after his successful penalty.

Saka was hailed by Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard and many other stars after the match, and was fully deserving of this praise. The outpouring of affection he has received since his starring role last night also highlights just how popular a figure in football the attacker is, something that was noted by Gary Neville.

• READ MORE: Everything to know on Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka from his age, parents and house

Gary Neville believes Bukayo Saka has risen above Arsenal rivalries

Neville feels that Saka is perhaps the first, or at least one of the only, England players to have been able to ingratiate himself with all England supporters, regardless of club allegiances. 

Speaking on ITV (06/07/2024, 22:26), the former full-back stated: “I don’t know many players who transcend sort of club rivalries, but he is one of those players who I think is enjoyed by every fan from every club. You look at him and just think he is a joy, he has got that happiness and that spirit in his game. He is a fighter. He keeps going right to the end, he always wants the ball, he is everything you want in a football player as it’s meant to be as a kid.”