Arsenal are certainly heading into the international break in excellent mood having won five of their seven games since the last break in September, maintaining their unbeaten record.
The two games Arsenal didn’t win during that period were trips to Atalanta and Manchester City, commendable results and Mikel Arteta’s side were even seconds away from a famous win at the Etihad.
That being said, Arsenal won four games in a row in all competitions thereafter, demonstrating their credentials to win silverware this season.
In all honesty, it would be a travesty were a trophy not brought back to the Emirates Stadium this season, with the Premier League crown the one that will mean the most.
Of course, as he’s demonstrated of late, if Arsenal are to enjoy a decorated campaign, Bukayo Saka will be at the heart and soul of it.
Bukayo Saka told he’s got a new side to his game at Arsenal
Saka delivered another clutch display against Southampton on the weekend, one that saved Arsenal from dropping vital points.
And speaking on ‘The Rest Is Football’ podcast, Gary Lineker was left in awe of Saka, who he described as ‘so strong’ and competitive.
READ MORE: Alan Shearer has spotted something ‘incredible’ that Kai Havertz has started doing at Arsenal
The pundit was often lauding Saka during the Euros for England and now he thought Saka was showing a tougher side to his game, one that proves as something of a surprise.
Lineker said: “He’s got that sweet little personality and nature that makes him very likeable. And it kids you a little bit, because he’s fiercely competitive and so strong, isn’t he?”
“Really, really strong and hard, so tough to get off the ball. I love watching him play.”
Saka set for two more games with England as grueling schedule continues
Of course, Lineker will get the chance to see Saka in action twice for England over the break.
Lee Carsley’s side will face Greece on Thursday before then hoping to complete their double-header away to Finland on Sunday.
Declan Rice will also be representing his country in those games, with the interim England boss perhaps planning to use him as a marauding number eight once again.
That being said, Kai Havertz has withdrawn from international duty for Germany, he’ll stay in north London to assess an ankle issue.
And whilst Arsenal fans will hope it’s nothing serious, they may be pleased that the club aren’t taking any chances in respect of how they lost Martin Odegaard to injury whilst away with Norway recently.
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