Bukayo Saka shares 12-word message after reaching Arsenal landmark, Martin Odegaard instantly responds

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Whilst he didn’t get on the scoresheet, Bukayo Saka was still instrumental in Arsenal’s win over Aston Villa on Saturday evening. 

Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the new Premier League season with a 2-0 win at Villa Park. However, it wasn’t entirely plain sailing for Mikel Arteta’s side against the Midlands outfit.

The Gunners were forced to scrap for this result, and rode their luck at times. Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya was praised for his contribution, and one particularly impressive save he made to keep the score level at 0-0 will live long in the memory. 

The substitutions just after the hour mark changed the game in the North London club’s favour. Unai Emery made a tactical mistake, and Leandro Trossard further accentuated his reputation as something of a super sub.

Bukayo Saka’s low cross took a couple of ricochets before falling at the feet of the Belgian winger, who swept the ball into the bottom corner with his first touch of the match. 

Ten minutes later, Saka picked up an assist for Thomas Partey’s strike, laying the ball off to the midfielder on the edge of the area. 

Saka won’t hog the headlines this weekend as he so often does, but his contribution to this victory was still absolutely vital.

• READ MORE: Everything to know on Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka from his age, parents and house

Bukayo Saka celebrates personal Arsenal landmark after Aston Villa win

After the match, the England international took to Instagram to highlight a significant moment in his Arsenal career.

The 22-year-old posted: “Proud to make it to 100 Premier League wins for my club.” He has achieved the feat in 172 top flight outings.

Former Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette replied with a red heart and a shooting star emoji. Club captain Martin Odegaard was also quick to respond with a heart emoji. 

Mikel Arteta needs attacking depth

Whilst Saka is a talismanic figure for the Gunners, he needs more support. The same can also be said for Kai Havertz, who led the line for the visitors at Villa Park, whilst Gabriel Jesus was ruled out with an injury.

Reiss Nelson was brought on for Saka for the final few moments, but Arteta lacks faith in the 24-year-old who seldom starts Premier League matches.

Arsenal are close to signing Mikel Merino who will bring much-needed depth to the midfield department, but Arsenal must follow that up with a new attacking acquisition in what remains of the transfer window.