England manager Gareth Southgate has provided an update onBukayo Sakaafter he was substituted with an ιɴjυɾу during the Three Lions’4-0 win at Maltaon Friday.
Saka was withdrawn at half-time with his side three goals to the good in their Euro 2024 qualifier at the National Stadium in Ta’ Qali.
TheArsenalwinger helped set up England’s opening goal on the night, with his cross diverted into the net by Malta defєɴԀer Ferdinando Apap.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, whoexcelled in his new midfield role, scored the Three Lions’ second goal of the evening with a stunning strike from range, before Harry Kane scored from the penalty spot having been fouled by Matthew Guillaumier.
Towards the єɴԀ of the first half, Saka’s ankle buckled under a sliding challenge from a Maltese defєɴԀer. He received treatment for several minutes before limping back on.
Saka appeared to be moving with more freedom in stoppage time as he forced goalkeeper Henry Bonello into a low save with a fierce strike, but he was replaced by Phil Foden at half-time.
However, Southgate alleviated fears thatSakahad sustained serious damage, revealing in his post-match press conference that he took the 21-year-old off as a precaution.
“He’s good. We just didn’t want to take a chance with him given the scoreline,” Southgate calmly stated.
Following Saka’s withdrawal,Englandadded one further goal, with Callum Wilson rounding off the scoring with another penalty late on.
England are back in Euro 2024 qualifying action on Monday evening when they take on North Macedonia at Old Trafford. TheThree Lionswill be looking to maintain their 100% start to the group.
