Mikel Arteta reveals Bukayo Saka injury boost in new three-man Arsenal update | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta also delivers an update on Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori ahead of Newcastle clash

Mikel Arteta has revealed Bukayo Saka is set to make a return for Arsenal’s match at home to Newcastle on Saturday.

He has been pushing to play a part in the final weeks of the season, with Arsenal now firmly in must-win territory.

The Gunners are locked on points and goal difference with Manchester City and there are now just five matches to play.

"Bukayo is probably going to be in the squad, so good news,” Arteta said.

Riccardo Calafiori, meanwhile, is also set for a return to action having not featured since the Champions League quarter-final first leg win over Sporting CP.

It has been another frustrating season on the injury front for the Italian, who has not started two consecutive Premier League matches since the start of December.

Boost: Riccardo Calafiori

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However, Arteta also revealed that Jurrien Timber is not yet ready to make his comeback. The Dutchman has been on the sidelines with a groin injury in recent weeks.

Timber has been unavailable Arsenal’s last seven matches and the Gunners have sorely missed him.

Saka’s return is a huge boost for Arsenal as Arteta attempts to get his attacking firing in a title race that could come down to goal difference.

The winger was unable to produce his best form earlier in the season but Arteta is confident that he could now shine when it matters most after overcoming his injury issue.

“We have given him some time because it was a moment where he was struggling to sustain the performances because he was not comfortable at all,” Arteta said.

“We’ve done that. He’s had the right treatment, the right space. He had some time as well for himself and now he’s in the most important part of the season and he’s back with us.”

Saka took part in first-team training on Friday as he proved he is ready to play some part against Newcastle.

“He was in great spirits today,” Arteta said.

“You can see that the sun was shining and he’s back with the team because he had a different energy. He’s been through a tough period, we certainly missed him.”