Jack Wilshere says Arsenal have the next Bukayo Saka in their academy: "He's unplayable..."

Arsenal Under-18 coach Jack Wilshere reckons the Gunners have the next Bukayo Saka already in their academy.

North London's Hale End academy has become a breeding ground for homegrown talent, producing the likes of Saka and Emile Smith Rowe.

Saka has been one of the Premier League's standout players this season, registering 13 goals and 10 assists across all competitions.

While the 21-year-old has been a driving force behind Mikel Arteta's title charge, helping them to an eight-point lead over second-placed Manchester City.

Indeed, part of Arteta's philosophy has been to place his trust in youth, forming the youngest average starting 11 across the entire division.

Saka has also shone on the international stage, carrying his form over to England's Euro 2024 qualifying matches, where he produced a Man of the Match performance against Ukraine during a 2-0 win.

However, Wilshere reckons they have already found Saka's successor in the shape of Amario Cozier-Duberry.

Wilshere identifies next Bukayo Saka

Cozier-Duberry has played a major role within Arsenal's academy ranks side this term, scoring 10 goals and providing six assists in all competitions.

When heaping praise on the youngster, Wilshere likened him to Saka and labelled him "unplayable".

“Amario is very exciting and Mikel likes him," Wilshere told The Athletic.

“He reminds me of Bukayo Saka, plays in the same position as him, needs to get better with his decision-making like Bukayo did, but he’s definitely exciting. In some moments he’s unplayable.

“You give him the ball and he can make things happen. You can set up a team and have a game plan, but when you’ve got individuals like that you’ve got a chance.”

His form has earned him a place on Arteta's first team bench on a few occasions this season. Although the 17-year-old is yet to make his highly anticipated senior debut.

READ MORE:

• Can you name these 10 well known football stadiums?
• Four Arsenal starlets who could be the future of the club

Topics: Bukayo Saka, Jack Wilshere, Arsenal, Football

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno