Mikel Arteta has given a fitness update on Bukayo Saka ahead of Arsenal travelling to Goodison Park.
Arsenal are set to take on Everton in a Premier League clash this afternoon. The Gunners will be looking to bring all three points back to the Emirates Stadium in order to remain within touching distance of early pace-setters Manchester City.
However, the north London club have a dreadful recent away record against the Toffees. Arsenal have lost four times, and drawn once, in their last five Premier League visits to Goodison Park.
Despite the Toffees’ early struggles this season, Mikel Arteta will know that his team will need to be at their best to secure the win they need. As such, Arsenal’s key players must turn up and produce high performance levels.
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Winger Bukayo Saka will certainly be counted amongst the Gunners’ major stars. It is therefore a huge boost for Arsenal that the 22-year-old looks fit to start on Sunday.
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Arteta says Saka in good shape for Arsenal
Speaking in his press conference ahead of the match, Arteta confirmed Saka’s availability for selection, amid concerns that the £195,000-a-week attacker may be struggling with an Achilles issue.
As quoted by the official Arsenal website, the Spanish coach said, “he’s fine. He trained normally today so nothing to report there. Every player has pains or issues. That’s normal in elite sports, but nothing to worry about.”
Keeping Saka fit will be crucial to Arsenal’s hopes for this season. The Hale End Academy graduate is an ever-present in the starting XI and one of the most influential figures on the pitch for the Gunners.
The 30-cap England international has enjoyed a fine start to the new Premier League campaign. Saka has already racked up two goals and one assist in four outings so far. Now that they have been reassured about his fitness, Arsenal fans will be hoping he can have a significant impact against Everton.