Gareth Southgate doesn’t believe that Bukayo Saka needs ‘closure’ after his torment at the Euros.

Bukayo Saka with his Player of the Match award with England (Photo via England on Twitter)
Bukayo Saka with his Player of the Match award with England (Photo via England on Twitter)

Bukayo Saka won Man of the Match for England as he scored one and set up a couple more on his birthday on Sunday.

Saka celebrated his 20th birthday with a strong performance against Andorra in a World Cup qualifier. He capped his display with a late headed goal for 4-0, five minutes from time, but he was already having a great game before that.

“It was a lovely moment for him to score,” said England boss Southgate.

“He got a fabulous reception before and during the game. You can see how popular he is with the team.

“From my perspective he doesn’t need closure [over the penalty at the Euros].

“The talent that he has, he is a hugely exciting player. No need from our side for closure.”

The Arsenal youngster also set up Jesse Lingard’s opener with a deflected cross in the first half, before assisting another Lingard goal with a lay-off in the 78th minute.

As well as his contributions to three of England’s four goals, Saka also completed his only attempted dribble, 91.3% of his passes, creating two chances, winning six of seven individual duels and four free-kicks.

The fans were certainly very supportive of Saka during the match, after what happened with the Euros over the summer. They even sang him ‘Happy Birthday’ during his post-match interview.

So perhaps it’s no surprise they also voted him Player of the Match. Saka also won Sky Sports’ Man of the Match award for his display.

Saka himself also posted on social media to thank everyone for his dream birthday.