Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice caused a fair amount of controversy this week by returning to Arsenal early from international duty with England.
However, both players were sent back to London Colney following assessments from England’s medical team, and Mikel Arteta has a big decision ahead of the weekend.
What is disappointing you most about Bukayo Saka right now?
Rice and Saka have both worked so hard for the Gunners this season, and the March international break has come at an ideal time for both.
Rice has been carrying a knock for quite a while, whereas Saka is starting to struggle with a bit of fatigue, which is why the duo were released from the England camp.
Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice’s issues have been made clear
Arsenal attacker Bukayo Saka has been flagged as ‘red zone fatigue’ by England’s medical staff, according to Hand of Arsenal.
For the 24-year-old, this break arrived at the perfect time as it was clear that the winger had been struggling for the past few weeks.
Saka was poor against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final, although it is clear that there was an actual reason for his struggles.
Arteta will now need to assess his vice captain ahead of the weekend’s FA Cup clash against Southampton to determine whether he is fit enough to feature.
With Noni Madueke expected to miss the match with a knee injury, Max Dowman could be given a start on the right wing.
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Meanwhile, Declan Rice has been carrying a knock he suffered before the Carabao Cup final, and again, that may be why he struggled at Wembley.
Hand of Arsenal is expecting Rice to be rested against Southampton at the weekend, although the Gunners’ midfield options are rather limited, as Martin Zubimendi is also carrying a knock.
Myles Lewis-Skelly could potentially get his chance to feature in midfield for the first time this season, alongside Christian Norgaard.
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