Ashley Cole urges England to rest Bukayo Saka for Slovenia clash

Former Arsenal and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole has advised England manager Gareth Southgate to rest Bukayo Saka and instead play Newcastle's Anthony Gordon on the left flank, with Phil Foden shifting to the right.

Chirag

June 23, 2024

Ashley Cole Asks England To Rest Bukayo Saka — Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images

The former Arsenal and Chelsea defender has recommended that the Three Lions manager bring in Newcastle United’s rising star Anthony Gordon to play on the left flank, while shifting Phil Foden to the right. Foden, who earned Manchester City’s Player of the Season award for the 2023/24 campaign, has not met expectations in the ongoing Euro 2024.

Several analysts have noted that the 24-year-old struggles on the left side, as he is accustomed to playing on the right or as a number 10.

If Southgate decides to change Foden’s position, he will need to bench Saka. However, Cole believes this would allow the Arsenal star to get some much-needed rest. Saka was crucial in setting up Jude Bellingham’s goal against Serbia in England’s tournament opener.

Speaking to beIN Sports, the former England international said, “I would like to see Anthony Gordon play from the left, I would like to see Foden playing on the right because I feel he’s been unfairly dug out. You can still see it as a rest for Saka. I would like Foden to show the world how good he is because we know.”

“I feel he’s been unfairly criticised playing out of position. People might go well he’s a world-class player, he should be able to adapt. Fair point I understand that. But what I see of him playing for Man City I would like to see him play there.”

Southgate’s squad aims to finish the group stages strongly by securing three points against Slovenia on Tuesday, hoping to enter the round of 16 as group leaders.