Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka is in contention to feature for Arsenal this weekend following a recent injury scare.
Saka sustained an injury while on international duty with England during their loss to Greece and was subsequently rested for the match against Finland as a precaution.
This raised concerns about his availability for Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Bournemouth.
However, Arteta has hinted that the Gunners’ talisman will likely be fit to play, revealing that Saka “probably” would have been ready to take on Finland last Sunday.
In his press conference on Friday, Arteta shared his thoughts on Saka: “It’s not a serious injury.
“He’s evolving well.
“He was probably good enough to play with the national team second game.
“We have some big tests today so we are hopeful.”
News that Bukayo Saka’s injury is not serious will come as a significant boost to Arsenal.
The Gunners have already lost captain Martin Odegaard this season after the midfielder sustained an ankle injury during last month’s international break.
Additionally, there are concerns regarding key players like Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli ahead of their trip to the south coast to face Bournemouth.
It remains uncertain whether either player will feature in the match.
However, Mikel Arteta hinted at positive news regarding Ødegaard, stating: “He’s not gonna be fit for this game.
“Next week will be a different story.
“He needs to clear some markers doing things with the ball in that latter stage of rehab.
“Next week will be crucial.”
Although Martin Ødegaard may be at least a week away from returning, news of Bukayo Saka’s availability will provide a significant boost to Arsenal ahead of their match against Bournemouth.
Earlier this week, Premier League legend Alan Shearer cautioned that losing Saka, even for a short period, would be a “massive blow” for the Gunners.
“It looks to be minor, but we’re not sure how long Saka will be out for, so for Arsenal to lose two of their big players, and both of those are huge players, it would be a massive blow to Arsenal,” he said.
“When you look at what he brings to the team with his energy, his ability and his attitude, he’s without doubt, one of their top players.
“I hope Saka’s injury is not too bad and by all accounts it doesn’t sound like it is, so it could be good news for him and Arsenal.”
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