Making memories as England hopes rise

SAKA AND THE FANS DREAMING OF 1966 REPEAT

- MARK MANN-BRYANS

BUKAYO Saka said he has dared to dream of World Cup glory, as buoyant England fans in Qatar predicted the Three Lions will overcome France.

The Arsenal forward said he has "always allowed myself to dream" when asked if he had ever imagined himself playing in a World Cup final and lifting the trophy.

Downing Street added its voice to the chorus of praise for Gareth Southgate's men following a "massive" 3-0 second-round win against Senegal, which set up the quarterfinal clash with the reigning World Cup champions.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's official spokesman added: "He wishes the best of luck for the rest of the tournament." Saka, when asked if he allows himself to dream or shuts out such thoughts, told reporters: "I always allow myself to dream." Referring to Colombian pop star Shakira's Waka Waka (This Time for Africa), the 21-year-old added: "Having watched the tournament as well growing up, a lot of memories, I remember South Africa 2010, the famous theme song, it's an amazing song.

"Things like that, it sticks with you forever, and as a kid you just one day wake up after a dream thinking 'I want to do this, I want to score a goal in the World Cup' and stuff like that, and I always allowed myself to dream." Meanwhile, an An England fan who attended the 1966 World Cup win is hoping to witness a repeat in Qatar 56 years later.