Bukayo Saka says England still carry World Cup semi-final ‘scar’

Saka says England must heal while turning the page

Bukayo Saka says England’s players are still carrying the “scar” of their heartbreaking World Cup semi-final defeat by Argentina, as they prepare to face the world champions again at Wembley.

England were on course to reach their first men’s World Cup final since 1966 before conceding two late goals in a 2-1 loss to Argentina. A 6-4 victory over France in the bronze-medal match secured England’s best finish at the tournament in six decades, but their wait for a second men’s World Cup remains.

“Obviously, there is still a scar on us when you believed and everyone was so united and so confident we could do it,” Saka said.

“Not just us, but the whole country we felt. You try to move on as soon as possible, but you know a scar is a scar, it decides to heal when it heals itself.”

England face Argentina’s fellow World Cup heavyweights Spain at Wembley on Saturday in the first of four Nations League matches in two weeks. Saka said the squad is determined to draw a line under the tournament and concentrate on qualifying for the Nations League knockout stages.

“We are trying to draw a line under [the World Cup] now and focus on the new international season that we have coming up,” he added.

Saka backs Dowman for future England call-up

Saka also offered a strong endorsement of Arsenal teenager Max Dowman, who is 16 and remains at youth level during the current international window. The England winger said Dowman’s talent was “insane” and that it was only a matter of time before the midfielder is considered for the senior squad.

England Under-21 manager Lee Carsley agreed that Dowman is an “amazing talent”, but believes remaining with the under-19s is the best step for now. Carsley said the move would allow Dowman to play regular minutes, consolidate his development and enjoy time with players of his own age while easing some of the pressure around his rapid rise.

Carsley added that he wanted to discuss Dowman’s pathway with the teenager and his parents, stressing that England are fortunate to have such a promising player.