It is still not yet clear whether Bukayo Saka will be fit to face Manchester City on Sunday, and a decision may now need to be taken over the Arsenal talisman.
The 22-year-old underwent medical tests yesterday to determine the severity of a potential muscle injury, but has been included in the England squad for next week’s international break.
However, Arsenal are now keen for Saka to have a rest given his high workload, even if he is able to face the Champions on Sunday, and are set for talks with Gareth Southgate’s team over a potential withdrawal from his National team squad.
Arsenal to talk to England
The Daily Mail have now reported that Arsenal have spoken with the England medics over Saka’s workload, and will speak again after the Man City clash to determine the best course of action for the winger over the next two weeks.
England have a friendly against Australia before a Euro qualifier against Italy, and Saka is one of four Arsenal players included in the squad, alongside Eddie Nketiah, Aaron Ramsdale and Declan Rice.
If Saka is not involved against City, then Arsenal will have a stronger case that he should be rested, with Mikel Arteta’s side set to travel to Chelsea following the break.
Arsenal have their own responsibility over Saka
Whilst care should be taken within the England camp over Saka’s involvement, Arsenal cannot complain too much if England see it fit to use Saka.
There has been ample opportunity to rest the attacker, and Arteta has been criticised for not substituting him earlier in some games.
If there is indeed concern within the club about his welfare, then it is up to the club to rest him and find a solution within the squad for our own games.
Selecting Saka to play against Man City, before then requesting that he is left out for his country, would be a hypocritical move from Arsenal, given that his potential injury and fatigue has come as a result of game time with the Gunners.
If however, Saka does not make the City game, then he should be left out of the England squad without question. Sunday’s team selection will therefore play a huge part in Saka’s potential for an extended rest in the next two weeks.
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