Jamie Redknapp warns Arsenal over Bukayo Saka issue after Carabao Cup final loss

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Jamie Redknapp claims that Bukayo Saka "isn’t performing to the level he can" for Arsenal with the winger needing to step up if the Gunners are to be a success this season.

Saka played in his side's Carabao Cup final loss to Manchester City , but was largely ineffective at Wembley. It isn't the first time the Englishman has seen his performance levels drop for the Gunners as questions continue to be asked of his displays.

Saka was previously the shining light for Arsenal and recently signed a lucrative deal to keep him at the Emirates. But his impact on games is not what it used to be, with Redknapp questioning the winger following another afternoon that seemed to pass him by.

Arsenal now have huge depth in attack with several players serving as credible alternatives to the academy graduate. The north Londoners are well placed to land silverware this term, but Saka has been challenged to step up having struggled to get the better of his opposite number recently.

Redknapp said on Sky Sports : “This is where you need your star players to step up. The player that I feel right now isn’t performing to the level he can, is Bukayo Saka. I want to see more from him.

"He’s been a difference maker for Arsenal for so long, so many times. Of late, I haven’t seen that guile and imagination and skill and goals that we need to see from him. Obviously he’s got Max Dowman breathing down his neck, [Noni] Madueke down that right hand side. Maybe even playing down the left sometimes. Because it feels like he’s not getting the success against anyone he’s playing against.

“I’m a big fan. I love the way he plays. But he is the man that needs to start taking the game by the scruff of the neck and playing with no fear if Arsenal are to win the title.”

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Saka has only scored six times in the Premier League and, in all competitions, is yet to hit double figures. He remains a talismanic figure at Arsenal and remains almost a guaranteed starter, despite his performance levels dropping off recently.

Saka's goal against Wolves last month ended a long run of 15 games without scoring, but Arteta has defended the winger's drop off. He claimed that the notable changes to their frontline may have disrupted his flow whilst also citing the amount of minutes played by the England ace.

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