Mikel Arteta has said he is hopeful that Bukayo Saka can be involved when Arsenal travel to face Bournemouth in the Premier League this weekend.
Saka withdrew early from the England squad during the international break after picking up an issue during the Three Lions’ defeat to Greece on October 10.
Initial fears were that the winger was facing an extended spell out but Arteta has provided a positive update on Saka’s status.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Arteta said Saka’s injury is ‘not serious’ and the 23-year-old has been involved in light training this week. He remains optimistic that Saka, who leads the Premier League for assists, can be involved this weekend.
“[Saka] is not a serious injury. He is evolving really well. He has done a few things in the last two days. He wasn’t fit enough to play with the national team in the second game but we are hopeful. We have a training session this afternoon, he did some bits yesterday, let’s see if he can make it on time.”
Havertz and Martinelli fitness doubts for Arsenal
Arteta revealed that Arsenal have doubts over Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli, though Thomas Partey has been passed fit. Martin Odegaard remains unavailable.
“He (Havertz) had a few issues and we have been dealing with that. He has been absolutely brilliant. He has very good communication with the national team and the manager.
“We modified everything we could do here and if he trains well today he has a good chance to be fit and available.
“Gabi (Martinelli) landed yesterday afternoon here so it is a very short time to be with him. Yesterday he went outside to do a little bit and see how he is feeling and today will be another step. [We will see] if we want to take the risk if he is fit because I know what the player is going to say.
Arteta added on Odegaard: “I think he is not going to be fit for this game. Next week will be a different story but again in that late stage of the rehab, where he is at the moment he is already doing a lot of stuff. He needs to clear some markers, he needs to clear some things. He needs to feel comfortable, especially with the ball. I think next week will be crucial to see how close he is.”
