Arsenal vs Fulham: Saka Set for Return as Premier League Run-In Heats Up

As the Premier League enters its decisive phase, Arsenal could receive a timely boost ahead of their clash with Fulham at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night. Bukayo Saka, the club’s talismanic winger, is in line to feature for the first time since December, following his recovery from a hamstring injury that required surgery.

It was during a winter fixture against Crystal Palace on 21 December that Saka pulled up sharply and limped off—an image that haunted Arsenal fans throughout the festive period. Three months on, Mikel Arteta appears ready to reintroduce him.

“Bukayo is ready to go,” said Arteta on Monday. “All the careful things are already done. Now it’s about putting him on the grass in the right moments. But he’s pushing because he really wants it. We’ve had to hold him back, even.”

That Saka is eager is no surprise. The England international has grown into one of the most influential figures in this Arsenal side, and his return comes at a crucial time as the Gunners look to maintain pressure in both domestic and European competitions.

Fulham Trip a Potential Launchpad for Arsenal’s Final Push

While Fulham have endured an inconsistent campaign, they remain capable of frustrating opponents on their day. Their visit to north London won’t be taken lightly by Arteta, especially given Arsenal’s current injury picture.

There’s a sense that this fixture could act as a springboard for the Gunners, particularly with a looming Champions League tie against Real Madrid around the corner. The match is not televised in the UK, but the significance within Arsenal’s season narrative is undeniable.

If Saka is handed a starting berth, it’s expected that young Ethan Nwaneri, fresh from scoring for England Under-21s, will return to the bench. This would hardly be a step back for the teenager, whose development is being carefully managed amidst growing hype.

Injury Concerns Continue to Mount

Unfortunately for Arsenal, the international break brought further headaches. Defender Riccardo Calafiori suffered a knee injury in Italy’s Nations League quarter-final against Germany, slipping awkwardly in what could have been a far more serious incident.

“Really unfortunate the way it happened,” Arteta explained. “It could have been much worse. Hopefully it’s going to be a matter of weeks, but we have to see how that injury evolves.”

There is some relief, however, in the return of Jurrien Timber after illness. Yet, ...