Former Three Lions of England and Liverpool legend, Michael Owen has slammed the idea that Bukayo Saka was too young to handle the pressure of taking the crucial penalty in the final of Euro 2020 loss to Italy.
England’s quest of winning their first major title in years nose-dived after Italy defeated them 3-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout which saw Saka miss a decisive spot-kick.
Saka took the Three Lions’ fifth and what became the last penalty after seeing Jordan Pickford saved Jorginho’s final effort for the Azzurri, yet the Arsenal star couldn’t find a way past Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Head coach Gareth Southgate was subsequently criticised for putting such a heavy burden on the 19-year-old’s shoulders.
Though, some persons suggested the boss should have let a more experienced performer such as Jack Grealish step up for the decisive kick, but Owen has defended his decision to opt for Saka.
“So much to debate following #EURO2020 but I simply can’t have this “too young at 19” theory to take a penalty,” the former Three Lions and Liverpool striker wrote on Twitter.
“In fact, if my experiences are anything to go by it’s easier being young!
“Fearless, confident, no previous scars etc.”
