Arsenal star Bukayo Saka picked up an injury during the international break, and his absence has been costly so far.
Mikel Arteta’s side fell to their first defeat of the season as they were beaten at Bournemouth, and in the absence of both Saka and Martin Odegaard, they registered just one shot on target.
Saka has been outstanding this season, taking the role of key creator whilst Odegaard has been injured, and with Arsenal set to face Liverpool in their next Premier League game, they will hope the England star returns.
The winger is absent from Arsenal’s squad to face Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, and Arteta has given a worrying update on his progress with his injury.
Mikel Arteta gives Bukayo Saka injury update
Speaking before Arsenal’s clash with Shakhtar, Arteta was asked whether Saka would be available for Liverpool’s visit to the Emirates Stadium, and fans may not like his answer.
“At the moment I’m not very helpful. Let’s see. We still have a few days,” Arteta replied.
Arteta does have several alternative options to Saka at his disposal, but none have been able to replicate his quality on the right wing so far.
Arsenal’s potential alternatives to Bukayo Saka against Liverpool
Liverpool will be a tough test for Arteta’s side, and it will be even tougher if Saka does not recover in time.
Raheem Sterling started on the right against Bournemouth, but was substituted after William Saliba’s red card.
Gabriel Jesus was given the nod against Shakhtar, but the Brazilian’s inconsistent form has raised pressure on him to deliver, and despite his quality on the ball, he is far from his best self.
Leandro Trossard and Ethan Nwaneri are also options on the right, but it seems more likely that one of Jesus or Sterling will be tasked with replacing Saka.
No matter which alternative option Arteta turns to, Saka will be heavily missed, and Arsenal fans will hope that he can recover for the huge game this weekend.
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