Arsenal attacker Bukayo Saka has revealed a message sent to him by Gunners legend Thierry Henry following the Euro 2020 final.
The 20-year-old saw his decisive penalty saved by Italy's Gianluigi Donnarumma in front of the Wembley crowd after Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho had also missed their spot kicks.
Saka cried onto the shoulder of Gareth Southgate on the pitch before the England trio were all subjected to horrific abuse online, but the Arsenal man has now opened up on a heartwarming interaction with Arsenal's all-time leading goalscorer.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Saka said: "After the euros, he [Henry] messaged me. He went out of his way to get my number and messaged me and told me that I'm actually a hero and I've done so well. So that meant everything to me, already [as someone] looking up to him."
Saka has opened the 2021-22 season with two goals and one assist in all competitions, with both of his Premier League contributions coming in the North London derby win over Tottenham Hotspur.
The Hale End graduate has also netted twice for England in World Cup Qualifying against Andorra since that fateful Wembley evening against Italy.
Ben Knapton
