Arsenal icon Robert Pires has publicly backtracked after suggesting that Bukayo Saka lacks 'consistency and experience' in the biggest games. The Frenchman raised a few eyebrows with his comments, which came ahead of the first north London derby of the Premier League campaign.
Pires initially argued that Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku was a better player than Saka, telling Wettbasis: "Bukayo still lacks a certain level of consistency and experience, especially in the big games.
"Perhaps this season, especially in the Champions League, he will show a more convincing face than last season when it counts. For example, in my opinion, Jeremy Doku from Manchester City is a bit better because he is technically stronger, has better dribbling skills and is more imaginative."
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Pires has since taken to Instagram to clarify that he does not believe Doku is a better winger than Saka after Arsenal fans questioned his comments on social media.
He wrote: "Ahead of today’s game I want to clarify that I think @bukayosaka87 is an amazing player and I have huge respect for him.
"A while ago I was asked to compare him to another player. I said the other player had better skills in some areas. This does not mean the other player is better than @bukayosaka87. I genuinely think @bukayosaka87 is better and a fantastic number seven."
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Saka has either scored or assisted in each of Arsenal's first three Premier League games of the season. He provided the cross for Kai Havertz's header in their victory over Wolves on the opening weekend before finding the net himself.
The England international then assisted Thomas Partey for Arsenal's second goal at Aston Villa before setting up Havertz once again in the home draw with Brighton.
Doku, meanwhile, is yet to provide a single goal contribution for City despite making four appearances in all competitions. He chipped in with three goals and 10 assists in the Premier League last season, while Saka ended the campaign on 16 goals and nine assists.
