Mikel Arteta provides update on Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard injuries

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.

Image Credits: Imago Images

Arsenal’s emphatic win over Leeds at the Emirates was supposed to be a routine statement in the title race.

The Gunners ran out 5–0 winners, with Jurrien Timber and Viktor Gyokeres both scoring twice.

Bukayo Saka also got on the scoresheet with a sharp first-half finish.

But for all the goals, the conversation after the match was not about the scoreline.

It was about the sight of two of Arsenal’s most important players leaving the pitch injured.

First, Martin Odegaard was forced off in the first half after a shoulder issue.

Then, early in the second half, Saka went down after stretching to play a pass.

He was helped off by the medical team and looked in clear discomfort.

For a player who already missed a large chunk of last season with hamstring surgery, the moment was alarming.

The atmosphere inside the Emirates shifted quickly from celebration to concern.

For Liverpool supporters following the title race closely, this development matters.

Saka’s influence in transition and end product is central to Arsenal’s attack.

His absence could change the balance of games, especially with big fixtures on the horizon.

After the game, Mikel Arteta admitted there is real concern.

“Martin [Odegaard] looks like a shoulder issue, so we will have to scan tomorrow and understand how bad it is,” Arteta said, as per Sky Sports.

“We have to wait to understand how long he will be out,” the Arsenal boss said when asked about Saka’s status.

He added: “I haven’t spoke to the doctor yet but for Bukayo to come off, it’s significant.”

“And Bukayo had to come off after sprinting, and when he was wrestling with the defender, he felt something in his hamstring, I think.”

“It is the other side [to the previous injury], but it is still not good.”

“I don’t know [how long they will be out]

We already lost Kai [Havertz], who is a big player for us, and now Bukayo and Martin.”

“That is why the squad has to be well-equipped.”

“It is going to be a long season, and we are going to need a lot of players in order to achieve what we want.”

That choice of words summed up the worry.

Saka is not the type of player who comes off easily, and Arteta made that point clear.

Arsenal will now run tests to determine the extent of the injury.

Until then, the focus stays on how they cope if Saka is out.

For Liverpool, who are chasing the same prize, this is a storyline worth watching.

Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone