There is a widespread view at Arsenal, which was articulated by Bukayo Saka on Monday, that the winger's three months on the sidelines could prove a blessing in disguise long-term.
Saka's hamstring injury was surely the biggest single factor in the collapse of Arsenal's chances in three competitions since the turn of the year, but he has returned to action feeling mentally "refreshed", while his body has also had a chance to recover from the rigours of playing so many high-intensity matches over the previous five seasons.
