'Surprised' - Jamie Redknapp can't believe what Mikel Arteta did before Port Vale vs Arsenal
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Charlie Grace
Wed 24 September 2025 20:04, UK
Arsenal are set to play Port Vale in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday evening, and one squad selection from Mikel Arteta has left Jamie Redknapp baffled.
Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Manchester City on Sunday came as welcome evidence that Arteta’s squad depth may help his side compete for a Premier League title this season.
Madueke will be a huge miss for Arsenal, who have just welcomed back William Saliba in a huge boost for the Gunners.
Credit: Imago
Another star Arteta has welcomed back to the side is Bukayo Saka, who was out with a hamstring injury sustained in Arsenal’s 1-0 loss to Liverpool.
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Speaking in the build-up to the game on Sky Sports, Redknapp said: “I’m really surprised to see Bukayo Saka, considering he’s had the hamstring injury.
Arteta could have pushed Saka or Madueke to the left, but neither would be as effective on that flank, and new signing Eberechi Eze would also have needed a place to play.
These are nice problems to have for Arteta, who has been stricken with injury problems throughout his managerial stint at Arsenal.
As the North London club finally build a strong and deep squad, Arteta will know he’s running out of excuses for his side not winning a trophy.