Mikel Arteta is confident that Bukayo Saka is enjoying his new role as a number ten for Arsenal after playing there against Wigan.
The 24-year-old was forced to play there against Wigan in the FA Cup following Riccardo Calafiori’s injury in the warm-up.
TRUE or FALSE: Bukayo Saka should start in the NUMBER 10 role more often!
Saka looked great in midfield, and now the experiment looks set to continue at the Emirates Stadium following Arteta’s latest press conference.
The Spaniard was asked about the Arsenal vice-captain being used in midfield more often, and there is a sense he thinks Saka worked well there.
Mikel Arteta on using Bukayo Saka in the number ten
Mikel Arteta has praised the way Arsenal’s players have stepped up in new positions and was particularly happy with Bukayo Saka in the number ten role.
Mikel Merino playing up front and Kai Havertz in the number ten are examples of other Arsenal stars playing in different roles.
“Yeah, obviously, the circumstances of certain players as well sometimes force you to do certain things, but Mikel (Merino) adapted incredibly well to the nine position because we miss Kai (Havertz) and Gabi (Jesus) at the time,” he told HaytersTV.
“Now we have issues with midfielders, and players are stepping in. Bukayo’s case as well. It’s obviously one that we need to consider for the future, but really good, especially the way the players respond to different types of roles.
AGREE or DISAGREE: Bukayo Saka is NOT a SUPERSTAR at Arsenal?
Arteta thinks that moving Saka into the number ten role will be positive for him and gives him something to prove with his performances.
When asked whether he thinks Saka enjoys playing in the number ten, Arteta added: “I think he does, and everything that brings a challenge to him and he needs to prove something. I think it ticks something on him, and I think it’s something positive.”
Arsenal fans were pleased with how Saka did in midfield and will be excited to see him play there more often for the Gunners.
Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard are due back from injury soon
However, Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard are both due back from injury soon, meaning Saka will likely be moved back to right wing.
Speaking to the media about Odegaard, Arteta said: “No, for Wolves, he’s not going to be fit, but for Sunday, we are very hopeful that he can be with us.”
Meanwhile, Havertz could also be back to face Tottenham: “Kai is the other one, but again, for the weekend, it’s a possibility, so, looking forward to having him in the squad.”
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