Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has hinted that star player Bukayo Saka will be available for the Gunners’ Premier League clash with Fulham on Tuesday local time or early Wednesday morning (2/4).
Saka has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury on 22 December. However, the 23-year-old England international has reportedly started training with the first-team squad over the past week.
“Bukayo Saka is ready to play. His recovery is complete, so now it’s just a matter of playing him at the right time, but he’s been working hard because he really wants to play,” Arteta was quoted as saying by Sky Sports on Monday.
Saka was initially expected to return to action when Arsenal face Real Madrid in the Champions League on 9 April, but Arteta revealed that the player could be available when his side host Fulham in the early hours of Wednesday morning (4 April).
“We respect the (recovery) times that have been set, we have done everything, we had to hold him back before, so now he is ready to play,” he said.
Arteta even confirmed that Saka could start. The Spanish coach believes the midfielder will make a significant impact for his side, who have been struggling of late.
“Yes, yes (ready to start). He’s another weapon for us. We know the impact he has on the team and how important his role and contribution is to our success, so it’s good to see him back,” he said.
Saka’s recovery is a welcome boost for Arteta ahead of a crucial period for Arsenal this season, particularly in the Champions League.
After hosting Fulham, Arsenal travel to Everton’s home ground at Goodison Park on Saturday (5/4) evening IST. The Gunners then face a tough Champions League quarter-final clash with reigning European champions Real Madrid on 9 April.
