Rio Ferdinand repeats claim Bukayo Saka isn't world-class while on plane's mic during flight with Arsenal fans

Rio Ferdinand had to plead his case to angered chanting Arsenal fans on a flight to Porto following his comments claiming Bukayo Saka is not yet world class.

Ferdinand recently angered Arsenal fans with his comparisons between Foden and Saka, who recently became only the seventh player to rack up 75 goals and assists in the Premier League before turning 23.

Speaking on TNT Sport, Ferdinand said: "I think you've got to be looking at him [Foden] like that [world-class]. For what he does for the team, his importance to the team, with goals, assists and the rhythm of the game, especially this season.

"He's got to be in the conversation, and nearing that at least.

"I don't think [Saka] has done it at the top level, winning trophies at a team like this.

Saka against Burnley- Getty

"He's not [in as good a team as City's]. You've got to respect and appreciate that Foden's done this, where the medals are handed out, he's performed. Against the best teams as well, consistently.

"I think Saka is more about, he needs the opportunity to perform at that platform, that level, consistently, and you can consider him then [as world-class]." The United legend concluded.

Ferdinand may be now regretting his comments after being spotted by Arsenal fans on a flight to Porto, where Arsenal begin their Champions League knockout campaign tomorrow.

Arsenal fans started various chants directed at Ferdinand regarding Saka, repeatedly singing "Saka is world-class'' throughout the flight.

The staff at RyanAir even let Ferdinand plead his case to the angry passengers through the cabin crew radio system.

"Saka is a fantastic player, just not world class yet. He will be one day, just not yet," Ferdinand pleaded to the passengers.

Saka has been on fire for Arsenal this season, scoring 12 goals and assisting seven times in the league so far this season.

The 22-year-old's goals have answered a lot of questions about the credibility of Mikel Arteta's title hopes, with many suggesting Arsenal wouldn't be able to compete with Liverpool and Manchester City due to the lack of a talisman.

Saka also has three goals so far in the Champions League, and will have chance to add more tomorrow night in front of Ferdinand who may end up eating his words.

Topics: Football, Premier League, Arsenal, Bukayo Saka, Rio Ferdinand, Phil Foden

Tom Jenkins

Tom Jenkins is a Social Editor and Journalist for SPORTBible. Specialises in Football and F1 but has experience covering a variety of sports such as MMA, Boxing and Cricket. Suffers weekly as an Evertonian.

@tomjenkns