Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Bukayo Saka “ready to go” after a three-month injury layoff due to a hamstring injury. The 23-year-old England forward has not featured for the club since their 5-1 win at Crystal Palace on December 21.
“Bukayo is ready to go,” Arteta said on the eve of his team’s match against Fulham on Tuesday. “All the careful things are already done, so now it’s about putting him on the grass in the right moments. But he’s pushing because he really wants to.”
When asked if Saka could start against Fulham at the Emirates, Arteta replied, “Yeah, yeah.” The Spaniard added, “Bukayo is a massive weapon. We know the impact that he has had in the team and how important his role and his contribution is to our success. It’s great to have him back.”
Saka’s return is a huge boost for Arteta, who has been short of firepower in recent weeks, with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus out of action with long-term injuries.
Arsenal are second in the Premier League, 12 points behind Liverpool with just nine games to go, but they are through to the Champions League quarter-finals and host Real Madrid in the first leg of their tie on April 8.
With Saka’s return, Arsenal will be looking to strengthen their attack and make a strong push for the Champions League title. Arteta’s team will face a tough challenge against Real Madrid, but with Saka back in the lineup, they will be hoping to make a significant impact.
The match is expected to be a highly competitive and intense affair, with both teams eager to emerge victorious. The North London derby is known for its high-energy atmosphere, and fans in Hong Kong can expect a thrilling match.
The event is also expected to have a significant impact on the local football community, with fans and players alike eagerly anticipating the match. The North London derby is one of the most famous and iconic rivalries in football, and its presence in Hong Kong is expected to generate significant excitement and interest.