Bukayo Saka may not want to get involved in the debate, but Theo Walcott insists the Arsenal winger is world class.

In recent weeks, there’s been a bit of a debate over whether Bukayo Saka is world class, driven largely by former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand.

In response to the debate, Theo Walcott insisted on Thursday that Saka does indeed fit in that bracket.

“Obviously, people are entitled to their opinion, I get it,” Walcott said. “For me, he is (world class). I think his numbers are showing that. His consistency as well, right now, for wingers in the game.

“He’s playing in the Premier League, the best league in the world as well.

“Plus my son loves him, so yeah, Saka is world class in my opinion!”

Rio Ferdinand initially claimed that Saka isn’t yet world class in a podcast appearance, before doubling down on a flight to Porto.

Some Gunners supporters on the plane baited Ferdinand with chants of “Saka’s world class”, but the former defender didn’t back down in an announcement over the loudspeaker system.

“I must say, Saka is a fantastic player, just not world class yet,” Ferdinand said in response to the fans.

“He will be one day, but just not yet.”

Saka’s on-field response to the debate was to score another goal against Newcastle United, bringing him to 28 goals and assists for the current campaign in all competitions.

TNT Sports reporter Jules Breach jokingly referenced Ferdinand’s comments in Saka’s post-match interview, asking him if he’d describe the finish for his goal as “world class”.

“No comment,” Saka laughed. “But I’m happy with another goal today, and most importantly, I’m happy to win.”