Gareth Southgate has some big decisions to make ahead of Sunday’s game in Gelsenkirchen.

Bukayo Saka has responded to suggestions that he could play at left-back for England in their last-16 clash against Slovakia.

Earlier this week, former Arsenal striker Ian Wright said Gareth Southgate has the chance to “activate” England’s attack at Euro 2024 by putting Saka in at left-back.

The 22-year-old, who has started every game for the Three Lions this summer, was deployed as a left-back at youth level and was effective as a left wing-back in the early stages of his international career.

Advert

Speaking after Tuesday night’s 0-0 draw against Slovenia, Wright opened up on the possible solution that would allow in-form Chelsea winger Cole Palmer to be involved.

“As great as Saka has done for England in terms of what he creates and his goals and assists, he is a natural left sided player,” Wright began.

“He started playing for England on the left at youth level, he started at Arsenal on the left. If that’s going to give you the balance and gets you Cole Palmer in the team, it’s something you have to at least look at.”

Wright added: “Yes, Kyle Walker can play there [at left-back], it’s the same situation where you have the player coming inside, you have no one going around. He’s a natural left-footer Saka, we could activate the whole left side.”

Advert

Now, Saka has responded to those suggestions as he prepares for this weekend’s knockout stage game against Slovakia.

Speaking to BBC 5 Live Sport, the Arsenal forward said that “putting me out of position” at left-back is not the solution for England.

That being said, he said the decision was “in Gareth’s hands and we all have to trust what he selects on the day”.

Image credit: Getty

After picking up a win and two draws in Group C, the Three Lions finished ahead of Denmark, Slovenia and Serbia but their performances have left much to be desired.

Advert

Still, they will be hoping to improve on matters this weekend.

Phil Foden returned to Germany on Thursday night after he temporarily left camp this week to be with his partner, who gave birth to a baby boy.

It is unclear whether Foden will feature on Sunday but the Telegraph report that Kobbie Mainoo is in line to start his first game at Euro 2024.