Arsenal Manager Arteta Declares Saka ‘Prepared to Return’ Following Extended Injury Absence

Bukayo Saka is “ready to go” for Arsenal following a three-month absence due to a hamstring injury, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Monday.

The England international, 23, has netted nine goals across all competitions for the club this season but has not played since Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on December 21st.

“Bukayo is ready to go,” Arteta stated on the eve of his side’s matchup against Fulham on Tuesday.

“All the necessary precautions have been taken, so now it’s about getting him out on the pitch at the right times. He’s eager to return and really wants to play.

“We have respected the recovery period, done everything as needed, and at times had to hold him back. He is definitely ready.”

When asked if Saka could start against Fulham at the Emirates, the Arsenal manager replied: “Absolutely, yes.”

The Spaniard further remarked: “Bukayo is a tremendous asset. We are well aware of the impact he has made on the team and how crucial his role is to our success. It’s fantastic to have him back.”

Currently, Arsenal sit second in the Premier League, a sizeable 12 points behind Liverpool, with only nine matches remaining, making their chances of winning the title quite slim.

However, they have advanced to the Champions League quarter-finals and are set to host Real Madrid in the first leg of their tie on April 8th.

The return of Saka is a significant boost for Arteta, who has faced challenges in attack recently with both Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus sidelined due to long-term injuries.