“He is on top of his game” - Adebayor salutes Arsenal star for derby heroics, but insists Tottenham man let him punish Spurs
Emanuel Adebayor has showered praise on Arsenal star Bukayo Saka for his performance in the north London derby. However, Adebayor claimed that Tottenham Hotspur's Ben Davies made life easier for Saka.
Mikel Arteta's team were three up before half-time. An own goal from Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (15') broke the deadlock before Saka (27') and Kai Havertz (38') found the back of the net.
Spurs, though, showed late promise, with Cuti Romero (64') and Son Heung-min (87' P) pulling two back. The league leaders held onto their lead and came out of the north London derby with three points.
Former Arsenal and Spurs striker Adebayor highlighted how Ange Postecoglou's tactics made it easier for Saka to wreak havoc and have a field day against Ben Davies. He said (via The Boot Room):
"We talked before this game that if they leave and push both of their full-backs in front, then it's very difficult for them. A player like Saka on the side, you know what a different player he can be. Give him space and he can do whatever he wants to."
Adebayor added:
"A player of his quality, if I am playing against him, I am telling my full-back to stay on him. Right now, he's on top of his game and playing best football. But Davies is moving up front all the time. Davies isnt going to be the one to score for Tottenham to win this game, so he has to stay in position, and have Bukayo Saka and have that control. That's what they aren't doing and it's what going to make life difficult for them."
While Adebayor's analysis was spot on, Davies did have his moment going forward in the match. He earned a late penalty, which Son converted to make it 3-2.
Adebayor says Arsenal star Bukayo Saka is one of the best in the Premier League
Bukayo Saka has been an immensely crucial player for the Gunners in recent years. His mazy yet penetrating runs have often resulted in goals or assists.
Adebayor reckons Saka is one of the best in the league and once again pointed out Spurs' faulty tactics of dealing with him. He said after the game (via The Boot Room):
"Bukayo Saka today is one of the best wingers in the Premier League and maybe in Europe. You can't give him that space. You knew how good he is and what he could bring to his team with Arsenal. Why do you allow him to have so much space to punich you?"
This season, Saka has produced remarkable numbers, scoring 19 goals and providing 14 assists in 45 appearances for the Gunners across competitions.