Mikel Arteta has now provided an update on the fitness of Bukayo Saka after Arsenal secured a 2-0 against Luton Town.
Bukayo Saka was not even included in the Arsenal squad for the visit of Luton Town on Wednesday evening.
Mikel Arteta used the clash against the Hatters to rest and rotate some of his key players. However, whilst the likes of Declan Rice, Gabriel Jesus, and Jorginho were given a place on the bench, Saka was nowhere to be seen at the Emirates Stadium.
Why did Bukayo Saka not play for Arsenal v Luton Town?
The 22-year-old winger was certainly in need of a proper rest. Against Manchester City last time out, the Hale End academy graduate struggled to produce his best performance as he looked to be some way short of full fitness. Arteta admitted after that match that Saka was struggling with “fatigue.”
It is hardly surprising that the England star is tired. Generally, he starts week in, week out for the Gunners and is heavily relied upon by Arteta.
The fact that there is not currently an adequate back-up option for Saka in the Arsenal squad is an issue that must be addressed in the upcoming summer transfer window. Reiss Nelson started in his place on the right flank against Luton. However, he struggled to stake a claim for deserving more regular game time as he produced a very timid performance. Arsenal will be open to offers for Nelson this summer, as for the good of his career he need to move on from the Emirates Stadium now.
As he is Arsenal’s most potent attacking force, Arteta needs Saka back fit and firing on all cylinders as quickly as possible. So far this season, the England international has racked up 16 goals and 13 assists in 38 appearances across all competitions for the Gunners.
READ MORE: Everything to know about Arsenal ace Bukayo Saka from his age, parents and house
Mikel Arteta gives Bukayo Saka fitness update ahead of Brighton
Arteta will be hoping to have the player back in action when his side travel to face Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday. The Seagulls will pose a stern test in what is another must-win match for Arsenal.
As quoted by football.london, looking ahead to that match, the manager has now provided an update on Saka’s current condition. Arteta said, “he was close [to playing v Luton] but again he felt something in a very similar area against City and it was a very short turnaround. Hopefully he’ll be able to train again and we can have him for the weekend.”
Clearly, there is no concern that Saka is set to be sidelined for an extended period.