By Paul Akalonu
Bukayo Saka appeared stunned as he accepted the England Player of the Year award on Friday September 23.
Voters chose the Arsenal star over England captain and runner-up Harry Kane and third-place finisher Declan Rice; as the England’s standout performer over the last 12 months.
The 21-year-old player, has made nine international appearances for the Three Lions this season, scoring three goals and earning man-of-the-match honors in England’s 4-0 victory over Andorra, on his birthday last September.
After a year, the Arsenal winger has received the ultimate vote of confidence from fans as England prepares to face Italy in the Nations League on Friday night.
Reacting, Saka said in disbelief, “No way! I did not expect this, honestly. I’m honoured.”
“I’m so happy, I can’t put into words how happy I am. It’s really nice to be awarded this trophy, and that’s all I can really say!”
“Playing for England is so special, there are so many kids who want to play football for teams and it’s really difficult, so to get picked to play for your country, it’s another level of honour and pride in yourself.”
“So I’m just really happy every time I get to come here, pull on the shirt and play at Wembley in front of all the fans.
“It’s a beautiful feeling.”
