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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Marc Mayo

Bukayo Saka arrives for England duty ahead of verdict over Arsenal star’s injury

Bukayo Saka has reported for England duty as fans await a verdict on his fitness.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta had ruled the winger, 22, out of the Three Lions’ matches against Australia and Italy after he failed to recover from a suspected muscle injury in time for Sunday’s league win over Manchester City.

However, Standard Sport earlier today reported that the FA still planned on bringing Saka to the national team camp for assessment.

Talks have been ongoing between his club and country’s medical staff before the forward arrived in England gear on Monday afternoon, along with teammates including Jude Bellingham and Aaron Ramsdale.

Bukayo Saka arrives at St George’s Park on Monday afternoon (The FA via Getty Images)

Saka has four days to recover in time for the friendly with Australia at Wembley on Friday night, however Gareth Southgate is expected to use that friendly to experiment with fringe players.

Therefore, England may be focused on ensuring he is ready for a Euro 2024 qualifier with Italy the following Tuesday. A win in the capital would ensure their qualification for next summer’s tournament.

Arsenal are understood to prefer Saka rests over the international period to avoid aggravating his injury.

Arteta had said on Sunday evening: “No, he couldn’t make it.

“He hasn’t had a single training session, so he will be out. He’s not available to play football at the moment.”

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