Mikel Arteta offers Bukayo Saka injury update with opportunity for early Arsenal return discussed

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was quizzed on Bukayo Saka’s fitness ahead of the Gunners’ clash with Dinamo Zagreb.

Saka underwent surgery to repair his hamstring after going down injured against Crystal Palace back in December.

Arsenal’s greatest fears were realised when Saka emerged from Selhurst Park on crutches, with the winger now on the road to recovery.

Arteta admitted Saka will be out for months as he looks to return to his best, in what is a challenging road ahead of the England international.

• READ MORE: How long Bukayo Saka will be out for as torn hamstring injury details explained in Arsenal nightmare

Mikel Arteta issues Bukayo Saka injury update

Arsenal fans are desperate to see Saka back in action as the Gunners continue to struggle going forward. 

At the time of his injury, the Hale End graduate had contributed to 22 goals in all competitions this season, telling of what Arsenal are missing.

There was some hope as Saka was spotted without crutches at the Emirates during Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa, however, Arteta urged fans not to get their hopes up upon seeing the player’s progression. 

In the pre-match press conference ahead of Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Dinamo Zagreb, Arteta was asked whether Saka could return from injury earlier than March.

“No, that’s not going to change,” the Arsenal manager said.

“It’s within the process and the time that they had, that phase is gone now, he’s doing really well, he’s feeling better day by day but we have to respect the healing process. Then obviously he still has a lot of stages to go through in rehab.”

Hamstring injuries can recur and mustn’t be rushed, with Arteta echoing such just as excitement started to build regarding the winger’s fitness.

Saka set to miss a host of important games for Arsenal 

Already, Arsenal have been without Saka for seven games in all competitions, where the forward has had to watch his teammates suffer.

In those seven games, the Gunners have only won three times, drawing and losing twice as well.

While Arsenal are still being backed to win the Premier League title, Saka’s absence could continue to weigh heavy on the front line, with some crucial fixtures coming up. 

Every game from now until the end of the season must be regarded as a must-win, with no room to stumble again in the title race. 

For now, fans will wish Saka well on his road to recovery despite missing him dearly on the pitch.