Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards has highlighted the contributions of David Raya and Bukayo Saka to Arsenal's successful season, arguing they are sometimes overlooked. Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast, Richards insisted Raya should be nominated for Player of the Year, praising his crucial saves. He noted that Raya, alongside Gabriel, Saliba, and Rice, forms the spine of the team.
Richards also commended Saka for stepping up in big moments, despite not being at his best overall this season. He pointed to Saka's goal against Fulham and his strike against Atletico Madrid as examples of his timely form. “They’re coming into form at the right time,” Richards added.
The Gunners are three matches away from winning the Premier League title and have also reached the Champions League final, with Arteta’s side currently five points clear at the top of the table. Manchester City hold a game in hand.
Gary Lineker, also on the podcast, noted that Arsenal’s defensive solidity bodes well for England. Arsenal face West Ham, Burnley, and Crystal Palace before the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest on June 1, which may delay their England internationals’ availability for the national team.
