Arsenal star Bukayo Saka was a doubt heading into the clash with Liverpool, but just hours after those injury concerns, he was back on the scoresheet.
The 23-year-old suffered a hamstring injury while away with England over the October international break and missed out on clashes with Bournemouth and Shakhtar Donetsk.
There was uncertainty over Saka’s availability for Liverpool, but to the delight of the Arsenal faithful, the winger made the team.
Just eight minutes into the tie, the winger struck as he latched onto a long pass from Ben White to slam home a shot into the back of the net.
It featured one moment that former Manchester United defender Gary Neville absolutely loved.
Gary Neville raves about Bukayo Saka goal
Saka’s impressive display saw him take down the lofted ball from White to take on Liverpool ace Andy Robertson.
The winger cut inside, nutmegging the left-back to embarrass him, before firing with pace into the roof of the net to give his side the lead.
It was adored by Neville, who said on Sky Sports: “Absolutely devastating on the finish. Brilliant, little nutmeg along the way as well, cheeky.”
The display yet again proved why Saka is one of the best players in the world, even at the age of just 23 years old.
To be able to put in consistent performances with high output displays just how special of a talent he is.
For that reason, it is vital he stays fit to help the Gunners push towards the Premier League title this season.
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Bukayo Saka fitness is key to Premier League title race
If Arsenal are to win the Premier League, plenty of that will depend on the fitness of Saka for the weeks ahead.
The academy graduate already has three goals and eight assists to his name in just nine appearances, popping up with an involvement more than once every match.
Without him, the Gunners looked limp against both Bournemouth and Shakhtar Donetsk and as a result, they struggled.
His influence on set-pieces are clear, but the overall threat he brings on the flank make him extremely tough to stop.
Saka can chop inside, take a player on the outside, strike from up close and at range while also having a pinpoint delivery.
At this point, there’s very little separating the Arsenal star from the very best in the modern game.
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