RIO FERDINAND is determined Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka is not ‘world class’ – despite his impressive performances for the Gunners.
The 22-year-old has been crucial to Mikel Arteta‘s side again this season, scoring ten goals and registering two assists, as well as creating endless chances.
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The winger netted twice in Arsenal’s 6-0 walkover of West Ham last weekend, smashing a record in the process.
Saka is now the youngest player in more than 40 years to reach 50 goals for the North London club.
First, he showed some steely resolve in stepping up to take a penalty, having missed a crucial spot-kick in the same stadium last year.
It got even better for Saka, whose second strike also marked his 100th overall goal contribution for the North London club.
Yet, former Manchester United centre-back Ferdinand is still insistent the talented Brit is simply not ‘world class’.
On Vibe with Five he said: “Not yet. Listen. I think Saka’s been unreal.
“I actually think he needs a bit of a rest, so many games for a young kid.
“But I think, it’s almost like what is world-class?
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“He hasn’t done it in the Champions League, has he?
“I’m talking in the nitty-gritty stages.
“Saka’s top, don’t get me wrong. He’s not world-class yet.”
Despite his brace, and Arsenal’s rout of a team who beat them over Christmas, Saka was not content on full-time.
Speaking after the game, the 22-year-old said: “We were four nil up in the first half and could have scored many more, including myself.
“I think today we smelled blood, we went for the kill. We did really well to score more.
Asked about his 50-goal landmark, he add: “I’m really happy to achieve that. But I’m not sure I can be happy today.
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“I missed some chances I thought I could have scored.
“But it’s a great achievement. I’m proud of that.”
William Saliba, Gabriel Magalheas, Leandro Trossard and Declan Rice all scored too, but it was Rice who stole the show after refusing to celebrate his screamer against his former side.
The Hammers, who had little else to celebrate in their dismal defeat, clapped the classy midfield as he walked off the pitch.
