Saka Fails To Execute Penalty On Italy Goal, Gary Neville: Young Man, Hold Your Head Up High!

Bukayo Saka (Twitter @england)

JAKARTA - Gary Neville said on ITV that Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka must keep his head high despite failing to score from the penalty spot against Italy.

Arsenal youth player Saka failed to score in the shootout as England lost to Italy in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley Stadium in London early Monday.

The final ended 1-1 after extra time, and Italy won on penalties 3-2.

Saka (19) failed to beat Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, which saw Gli Azzurri win the final.

Former Manchester United and England international defender Neville said Saka should be proud.

“Absolutely heartbreaking for the boy. Gone are the days where missed penalty takers were criticized and reviled," Neville said.

“Everyone has loved this kid for the past few weeks, they will love him in the next few weeks too. He is absolutely brilliant.

“Hey young man, hold your head high! Because we're going to look after it now for the next few months."

Saka was brilliant for Arsenal last season, and the winger did well for England at the European Championship this summer.

This has been some journey. As a nation, we were united in a belief that we can achieve something special after the hardest of years. It wasn't meant to be, but this team is just getting started. They will continue to make you proud, both on and off the pitch. pic.twitter.com/vDaTXvo6cH

— England (@England) July 11, 2021

Yes, the teenager couldn't score from 12 yards tonight, but that shouldn't take away from the fact that he's a very good player.

Also, Saka is 19 years old and he took a penalty in a high-five in the European Championship final. It shows his character.

Saka will rise from disappointment tonight. And so is England.