Mikel Arteta has claimed “the top players in the world” perform every three days as he defended his decision to start Bukayo Saka in the Europa League win over PSV Eindhoven.
The England winger limped off after 85 minutes after receiving “a kick” and the Gunners boss expected him to be fit for Sunday’s visit to Southampton. “He was limping a little bit, but hopefully, he will be alright," Arteta said.
Saka has started 12 of Arsenal ’s 14 matches this season as well as coming off the bench in England’s 3-3 draw with Germany. He also played 59 minutes on the artificial turf at FK Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League last week before playing 82 minutes at Leeds.
