Arsenal's English midfielder Bukayo Saka (C) celebrates with teammates after scoring their second goal during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium in London on March 19, 2023. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
3 standout players from dominant win over Crystal Palace
2. Bukayo Saka
Bukayo Saka struck twice in the win. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
The physical toll of playing week in and week out, in addition to midweek fixtures, has the potential to drain players. It is mentally and physically exhausting, especially for youngsters. Bukayo Saka, however, looked anything but exhausted against Palace.
The winger was nothing short of spectacular. While he took some time to get into the match, once he was on it, he was unstoppable. Always looking to drive at defenders and make things happen, his assist for Martinelli came out of sheer persistence. The ability he has on both feet sets him apart from every other player. This ability was able to bear fruit for the assist but his goals were also well-taken.
Picking up dangerous positions off the ball, he found room inside a crowded box before finishing with finesse for his first. His second saw him attack space from the left. He found himself in a central position before slotting home first time.
The only thing this game against Crystal Palace proved is something Arsenal fans have known for a long time: Saka is simply world-class.
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