Arsenal’s hopes of maintaining their strong start to the season have been boosted by news that Bukayo Saka is optimistic about returning to action for their upcoming Premier League clash against Bournemouth. Saka, who suffered a hamstring injury during England’s 2-1 defeat to Greece, was visibly in discomfort and was substituted in the 51st minute for Chelsea’s Noni Madueke.
Following the injury, Saka withdrew from the England squad for their subsequent match against Finland, raising concerns about his availability for Arsenal’s trip to Bournemouth. However, reports from The Athletic suggest that the 23-year-old winger remains hopeful of featuring in the match, a crucial fixture for the Gunners as they aim to solidify their position in the league.
With an impressive tally of two goals and seven assists this season, Saka has been a standout performer in the Premier League, making his potential absence a significant concern for Mikel Arteta’s side.
England’s interim manager Lee Carsley provided an update on Saka’s condition, noting, “He’s being assessed. In the build-up to the first goal, you could see that he had felt something in his leg.”
In addition to Saka’s situation, Arsenal is navigating multiple injury concerns. Gabriel Martinelli is sidelined due to a calf issue that has ruled him out of Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Peru, while Kai Havertz has been managing a knee problem but is expected to be available for selection against Bournemouth.
Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard, who has been recovering from an ankle ligament injury, is also targeting a return to first-team action next month. Meanwhile, uncertainty remains regarding the fitness of Ben White, Jurrien Timber, and Oleksandr Zinchenko ahead of the vital encounter at the Vitality Stadium.
As the Gunners prepare for the match on Saturday afternoon, fans will be eagerly awaiting further updates on Saka’s fitness and hoping for a full-strength squad to take on the Cherries.