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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Alex Milne

Freddie Ljungberg identifies Bukayo Saka's "sad" problem at Arsenal and sends stark warning

Former Arsenal player and coach Freddie Ljungberg believes the Gunners are too over-reliant on young winger Bukayo Saka.

And he thinks it is "not right" that the 19-year-old has had to take on such a lot of responsibility at such a young age.

Saka has had another superb season at the Emirates, scoring six goals and creating seven assists in all competitions.

And he has regularly outshone more senior stars such as Willian and Nicolas Pepe as he continues to develop into arguably one of the brightest talents in Europe.

But Ljungberg, who has previously worked with Saka, is worried that Arsenal are beginning to put too much pressure on the player's shoulders.

Speaking on Sky Sports ahead of the North London derby, he said the situation with Saka reflected the issues that his old side have been having in recent years.

"It's almost sad for Arsenal that Bukayo is now the main man and the one you look for to create that special moment," Ljungberg said.

"His decision-making and execution are top. But being that young and almost having to carry the team is not right either.

"He has a great mentality and he is a great kid. But that is a lot of pressure to take on when you're that young."

When asked about coaching Saka, Ljungberg added: "He's been at Arsenal his whole life and loves the club. He knows what it means.

"He works so hard. He was 15 when I started coaching him and it was a pleasure.

Freddie Ljungberg is clearly a huge fan of Saka (REUTERS)

"He came and asked questions all the time and was not scared to ask to practice things a bit extra. He was very clever and I'm so happy for him."

Saka will be desperate to make the difference against Tottenham as Arsenal look to get one over their old rivals and keep their hopes of finishing in a European qualification spot alive.

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