Saka hands Arsenal major injury boost ahead of crucial Olympiacos clash

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The Gunners winger was expected to miss Thursday's Europa League tie with a hamstring strain but is feeling "much better"

Bukayo Saka is feeling "much better" and could be involved for Arsenal in their crucial Europa League clash with Olympiacos, according to boss Mikel Arteta.


The Gunners youngster was forced off at half-time during Sunday’s north London derby victory over Tottenham with a hamstring problem.

It was initially feared he could miss around three weeks, but he has reacted well to treatment and Arteta has not ruled out the possibility of him featuring against Olympiacos on Thursday night.

What’s been said?

When asked about the status of Saka during his pre-match press conference, Arteta revealed he had been put through a fitness test on Wednesday to see if he would be available to face the Greek champions.


“He was doing another test,” said the Arsenal boss. “Obviously he felt something muscular, but he’s been much, much better and evolving really well.

“So we will make a decision this afternoon on what we will do.”


Arsenal correspondent Charles Watts

If there are any doubts about Saka’s fitness, then Arsenal should err on the side of caution on Thursday night.

They have a 3-1 lead from the first leg and really should be able to get the job done without the 19-year-old, who has needed a bit of a rest for some time.

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