Bukayo Saka Speaks Out For First Time Following England's Defeat In Euro 2020 Final

Bukayo Saka has taken to social media for the first time since England's defeat in the Euro 2020 final against Italy.

In the statement, 19-year-old Saka took the opportunity to express that there is 'no place for racism or hate of any kind in football or in any area of society'.

After taking some much needed time away from social media, the Arsenal midfielder used his post to thank the people that really matter and those that have supported him.

He wrote: "It was an honour to be part of an England squad that leads by example, they are brothers for life and I'm grateful for everything that I have learnt from every one of the players and staff who worked so hard.

"To help that team reach our first final in 55 years, seeing my family in the crowd, knowing what they've given up to help me get there, that meant everything to me.

"There are no words to tell you how disappointed I was with the result and my penalty. I really believed we would win this for you.

"I'm sorry that we couldn't bring it home for you this year, but I promise you that we will give everything we've got to make sure this generation knows how it feels to win.

"My reaction post match said it all, I was hurting so much and I felt like I'd let you all and my England family down, but I can promise you this.. I will not let that moment or the negativity that I've received this week break me.

"For those who have campaigned on my behalf and sent me heartfelt letters, wished me and my family well - I'm so thankful. This is what football should be about. Passion, people of all races, genders, religions and backgrounds coming together with one shared joy of the rollercoaster of football."

PA

Following Sunday's game, Saka was singled out alongside teammates Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho for missing penalties.

If they weren't feeling bad enough already, so-called 'fans' took it upon themselves to flood the trio with messages of racism and hate which the police are now investigating and arrests have been made.

Topics: SPORT, Entertainment

Rebecca Shepherd

I'm Becky - a journalist at LADbible. I graduated with a First Class BA in Journalism before going on to cover criminal court cases, medical tribunals and breaking news for the national media - which inevitably and eventually became as glum as it sounds. Can often be found rocking a bag for life - which I made a 'thing' way before Rihanna. You can contact me at [email protected]

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