Former Republic of Ireland winger Kevin Kilbane has sparked outrage among fans with his comments about England’s Bukayo Saka ahead of Euro 2024.
Kilbane, who was part of a TSN Sports studio panel previewing the tournament, caused a stir when he omitted the Arsenal star from his draft best XI for the competition. Instead, he opted for players like Kylian Mbappe, Declan Rice, and Bruno Fernandes.
The controversy arose when fellow pundit Stephen Caldwell included Saka in his selection. Kilbane then proceeded to criticize the 22-year-old, claiming that he tends to play on minor injuries and that he wouldn’t be as influential as France’s Antoine Griezmann.
Kevin Kilbane decided against including Bukayo Saka in his Euro 2024 best XI
Kilbane accused Saka of exaggerating injuries and then being fit for subsequent matches
Kilbane enjoyed a successful career, playing for Ireland and clubs like Sunderland, Everton, and West Brom
Fans were quick to voice their disagreement with Kilbane’s comments on social media, with some blaming the broadcaster for allowing such statements to be aired. Many felt that Saka was being unfairly targeted, drawing comparisons to the unnecessary criticism previously directed at a former England teammate.
Despite the backlash, Saka remains a key player for England and is expected to feature prominently in Gareth Southgate’s plans for Euro 2024 in Germany.