Bukayo Saka blames Kai Havertz for ruining Arsenal feat in Monaco win

Bukayo Saka joked that Kai Havertz ruined his first Arsenal hat-trick by converting his late effort in the Gunners’ Champions League victory over Monaco. The winger had scored twice before he fired goalwards late on – only for the ball to ricochet off Havertz and into the roof of the net.

Arsenal’s 3-0 triumph places them in an advantageous position as they seek to finish as high up the league phase table as possible. They will take 13 points into favourable matches against Dinamo Zagreb and Girona, hoping to avoid an extra set of matches by skipping the play-off round.

Saka was crucial to their win on Wednesday night, scoring either side of half-time. A trademark run to the back post saw him convert the opening goal, before he capitalised on excellent pressing by Havertz to fire home a second with 12 minutes remaining.

However, the 23-year-old could have scored a hat-trick when he fired away a right-footed half-volley in the 88th minute. It was unclear whether the ball was definitely going in, but substitute Havertz made sure by flicking the ball into the roof of the net – with Monaco defender Thilo Kehrer potentially getting a touch too.

Asked if Havertz prevented his first Arsenal treble by getting in the way, Saka quipped to TNT Sports: “Yeah, just about! He got in the way. But don’t worry, it’s coming. It’s coming.”

Saka and Myles Lewis-Skelly, who was also being interviewed, laughed with TNT reporter Jules Breach.

Lewis-Skelly was excellent on his first Champions League start. The 18-year-old started at left-back and was instrumental in Saka’s first goal, producing a calm turn in midfield before passing wide to Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian’s cross was crashed home by Saka.

“I saw the ball getting switched over from Martin. I saw I was getting pressed so I thought, ‘Keep calm and take the ball away from my man’.

“I saw Gabby (Jesus) peeling off and I played him through. Then Bukayo, great timing, with the finish. He’s always there! I can’t complain.

“I’m proud of myself. I believe in myself and I’ve come a long way. I just want to thank everyone for giving me an opportunity and hopefully it’s the first of many [Champions League appearances]. I need to push on from here.”

Saka said of the teenager: “He’s very bright. He just needs to keep the same head that he’s got. His mentality is top and he’s always asking questions, looking to learn. I’m so proud of him.”