Bukayo Saka came off the Arsenal bench in the first half in place of injured Emile Smith Rowe who went off with a head injury as the Gunners romped to a 5-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup action at the Emirates stadium Tuesday evening.

Saka created many scoring chances and a few times bundled to the ground for  fouls against Forest.

His performance caught the eye of some English websites and blogs who were in north London to witness the comprehensive victory over the 1980 European champions.

 Football.London which focuses on the London based clubs rated the young Nigerian a decent 7/10.

"Bukayo Saka (sub, Smith Rowe, 45'):

"Combined brilliantly with Tierney down the left and seemed to relish taking a leading role in proceedings, invariably looking to attack aggressively and force his defenders to make a mistake. 7."

ESPN also handed the impressive Saka a 7 from a possible 10.

"MF Bukayo Saka, 7 -- Came on just before the break following Smith Rowe's injury. He had a good chance 10 minutes after the intervalk when Ozil found him with a free kick, but couldn't get the ball out of his feet.

"Had a shot blocked a minute later after a neat one-two. Looked dangerous when running at defenders."


"Saka was brought on for Smith Rowe and showed glimpses of his talent. Clearly has pace to burn and the fact he is a genuine left-footed winger makes him unique in this Arsenal squad.

"Should be a regular in the Europa League and Carabao Cup sides this season," the website stressed.

Arsenal's next game is the Monday night clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Saka is expected to at least make the bench for that 'top  six' battle with the Red Devils.

Izuchukwu Okosi

Photo Credit : arsenal.com