December 26, 2024

Bukayo Saka hands Arsenal injury worry after winger hobbles off in FA Cup clash at Oxford but Arteta plays down fears

Saka #Saka

ARSENAL fans were fearing the worst when Bukayo Saka went off with a knock.

The star winger hobbled off the pitch during the Gunners’ 3-0 FA Cup third-round win over Oxford United, but manager Mikel Arteta has played down concerns.

Bukayo Saka was forced off in Arsenal's game against Oxford with an injury

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Bukayo Saka was forced off in Arsenal’s game against Oxford with an injuryCredit: Reuters

The 21-year-old came off the pitch in the 75th minute as he was not risked by Arteta as Emile Smith-Rowe came on in his place.

The injury to Saka did not cost Arsenal in the game as they cruised to victory and set themselves a fourth-round clash against Manchester City.

If the injury is a serious one, then it could hamper the Gunners’ title charge in the Premier League.

After he was subbed, fans shared their concerns on social media, with one tweeting: “Just hope Saka isn’t injured.”

A second commented: “Saka better not be injured. Hate games like this when there are unneeded injuries.

“Hopefully, just a dead leg or cramp which will be fine after tonight.”

A third said: “If Saka got injured, then none of it was worth it.”

A fourth added: “We need to close the deal for Mudryk tomorrow if Saka is injured.”

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A fifth chimed in with: “I hope Saka isn’t injured for the North London derby, we really need him I won’t lie if not, Martinelli needs to start on the right.”

However, after the game, Arteta insisted that the player was “fine”.

When asked about Saka’s condition, the Spaniard told ITV: “He’s fine, he was fine.”

However, there will be concerns over whether or not he is 100 per cent ready for the Gunners on Sunday as they travel to face rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

Following the North London derby clash, Arsenal have another tough fixture as they host Erik ten Hag’s in form Manchester United.

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