Euro 2024: Ferdinand suggests Saka for left-back amidst Shaw injury concerns
Rio Ferdinand has proposed that England manager Gareth Southgate deploy Bukayo Saka at left-back for their upcoming Euro match against Denmark.
This suggestion comes as Luke Shaw remains doubtful and Kieran Trippier faces uncertainty following England’s opener against Serbia.
In the latest episode of his Vibe with Five podcast, Ferdinand emphasized the potential defensive crisis for England.
“If Shaw’s not fit then 100 per cent, we’re bang in trouble,” Ferdinand said. “We would have to put Saka at left-back. I’d play Saka at left-back then I would.”
Bukayo Saka – Getty image
Saka, who initially broke into Arsenal’s first team as a left-back in 2018, has since transitioned to a more advanced role but remains versatile.
Recall during England’s Euro 2024 opener, he played on the right wing, assisting Jude Bellingham’s goal and troubling Serbia’s left-back Strahinja Pavlovic.
Ferdinand praised Saka’s adaptability, saying, “First 45, the wing-play he showed… you know what I liked about it? He mixed it up.
“He didn’t always come inside. He went on the outside a couple of times.”
