Arsenal are keeping their options open regarding Bukayo Saka’s availability for Sunday’s crucial clash against Liverpool.
After Tuesday night’s victory over Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, head coach Mikel Arteta stated that it was “unlikely” Saka would be fit for the visit of Arne Slot’s league leaders due to a hamstring injury sustained during international duty.
Arteta said: “At the moment I’m not very hopeful. Let’s see.
“We still have a few days.”
Speaking on Monday, Arteta said: “They [Martin Odegaard and Saka] are closer and both progressing really well.
“Martin is still not fit.
“With Bukayo, let’s see how he feels today and in the training session that we have later on.”
However, the Daily Mail claims Saka is determined to prove his fitness for the matchup against the Merseysiders.
Arsenal are willing to give the young winger every chance to be available for selection.
Both England and Arsenal’s medical teams believe the injury is not serious, and Arteta has previously asserted that Bukayo Saka is not expected to be a long-term absentee.
While it remains uncertain whether Saka will be included in the squad to face Liverpool, there is a sense of optimism that he can be fit, provided he doesn’t experience any setbacks before the match.
His participation would be a significant boost for Arsenal, who will definitely be without William Saliba due to suspension.
In addition to Bukayo Saka, Riccardo Calafiori, who limped off with a knee injury against Shakhtar, is also a doubt for the game.
Arteta told Amazon Prime after the game: “He felt something.
“He could not continue playing.
“So, [it is a] bit of a worry.
Medical staff will make a late decision on Jurrien Timber’s fitness due to a muscular injury.
Captain Martin Odegaard is returning from a long-term ankle issue, but Arteta has expressed skepticism about his chances of playing against Liverpool.
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