Bukayo Saka proved to be a game-changer for England in their 3-3 draw with Germany on Monday evening.The Arsenal star replaced Phil Foden in the 66th minute of play when the Three Lions were trailing 1-0 thanks to a penalty from Ilkay Gundogan.Just a minute after he entered the fray, England fell 2-0 behind courtesy of Kai Havertz's long-range stunner.But by the 75th minute of play, the scores were level at 2-2 and the second goal, scored by Mason Mount, was all about Saka.The 20-year-old star picked the ball up on the right and drove at Germany's defence, before offloading the ball to his teammate.Mount duly accepted the gift from Saka and brilliantly fired the ball past Marc-Andre ter Stegen first-time with his right peg.It was a world-class combination by the England pair and after recording an assist, Saka continued to be a menace on the right-hand side of the team's attack.
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 26: Mason Mount of England celebrates with teammate Bukayo Saka after scoring their side's second goal during the UEFA Nations League League A Group 3 match between England and Germany at Wembley Stadium on September 26, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Saka almost scored dramatic late winner vs Germany
Germany just couldn't live with the Arsenal forward, who seemed to have the ball glued to his feet at times.
Saka almost bagged a dramatic late winner as well after Havertz's equaliser, but Ter Stegen was able to pull off a magnificent fingertip save to deny him.
So his 24-minute cameo didn't end in truly spectacular fashion. Nevertheless, there's no shirking away from the fact that it was a masterclass from the youngster.
After watching footage of his short, yet brilliant display against Germany, it's hard not to think that he should be one of the first names on Gareth Southgate's team sheet at the Qatar World Cup.
Video: Saka's insane cameo vs Germany
When he's played in his natural position on the right-wing, Saka is such a threat.
The London-born forward was involved in all three of England's goals, which is the Oxford Dictionary definition of 'game-changing'.
If Southgate persists with a five-man defence in Qatar, a front three made up of Saka, Raheem Sterling and captain Harry Kane looks to be the perfect fit.
Here's how fans reacted to Saka's performance against Germany...
Saka looks ready for Saturday's derby
Saka will now return to Arsenal and begin preparations for Saturday's north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
It should be an absolute corker at the Emirates Stadium and if the Gunners secure all three points, they will remain top of the Premier League table.
After Saka's cameo against Germany, Arsenal fans will feel even more confident about that outcome turning into reality on the weekend.