BUKAYO SAKA is set to be sidelined for a further eight weeks as Arsenal’s injury nightmare intensified.
As the Gunners confirmed that German Kai Havertz was out for the season ahead of undergoing hamstring surgery, it emerged that Saka’s similar injury could prevent him returning until mid-April.
When Saka limped away from the 5-1 crushing of Crystal Palace in December, Arsenal were hoping for him to be fit by next month.
The club published photos of the England ace going through rehab drills during this week’s training camp in Dubai.
But boss Mikel Arteta, now left with only Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling and teenager Ethan Nwaneri as fit attacking options with first-team experience, will not take a further gamble on Saka unless he is absolutely ready.
That reluctance to risk Saka, whose explosive push off on his injured right leg is a major part of his threat, could now see the winger staying on the sidelines for up to four months in total.
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Meanwhile, the expected bad news on Havertz, the club’s 14-goal top scorer, was confirmed.
Arsenal announced: “We can confirm that Kai Havertz has sustained a hamstring injury during a training session in Dubai last week.
“Subsequent assessments and specialist reviews have confirmed that the injury will require surgery, which will take place in the coming days.
“Soon after surgery, Kai will begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme, which is expected to extend into pre-season preparations for next season.
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“Everyone at the club is fully focused on supporting Kai to ensure he is back to full fitness as soon as possible.”
Arteta, already without Gabriel Jesus, is also expected to be missing fellow Brazilian Gabriel Martinelli for a month.
He pulled a hamstring in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg defeat at Newcastle last week.
Arsenal sit seven points off Liverpool at the top of the table following their chaotic 2-2 draw against Everton yesterday.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
