Arsenal have been without a number of key players in recent weeks, including Bukayo Saka, but the winger is now on the brink of a return.
Mikel Arteta says Bukayo Saka could return this weekend (Image: (Ryan Pierse/Getty Images))
Bukayo Saka will be included in Arsenal’s squad for this weekend’s home game against Newcastle, along with Riccardo Calafioli, Mikel Arteta has confirmed.
The Gunners have been without their talisman in recent weeks due to an Achilles injury, with Saka’s last appearance for the club coming in the Carabao Cup final defeat against Manchester City. But the 24-year-old is now on the brink of a return, as Arsenal and City prepare to win the title.
Asked for an update on England’s star players in his pre-match press conference, Arteta said: “There is no problem. Bukayo will probably be in the squad.” “That’s very good news.”
Saka is not alone on the sidelines, as other key figures have missed recent matches. That includes full-back Calafioli, Arteta’s first choice, and Julian Timber. Arteta confirmed that Timber is also expected to return this weekend, although he is still unavailable.
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Regarding Saka, Arteta added: “We gave him time. It was a moment where he was struggling to maintain his performance. He has a little bit of time for himself.”
The prospect of Saka and others returning to the squad early will be a huge boost for Arsenal after a tough week that saw them surrender their top spot in the Premier League in goals scored to Manchester City.
Josep Guardiola’s side had a narrow lead after beating the Gunners 2-1 last weekend and continued with victory over Burnley on Wednesday night.
Riccardo Calafioli is also set to return (Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Arsenal have a chance to take a slight lead over City this weekend as they face their title rivals in the FA Cup semi-final against Southampton.
Following the home game against Newcastle, the Gunners have a Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid, with a home game against Fulham sandwiched between the two games. After that, they will travel to West Ham and play a home game against Burnley, who have already been relegated, before heading to Crystal Palace on the final day.
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