Bukayo Saka inspires Arsenal back to winning ways with impressive stat | OneFootball

Bukayo Saka's stunning opener during Arsenal's 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest split the sides early in the first half and eventually catapulted the Gunners back to winning ways.

After failing to win their last four Premier League fixtures, Saturday's home clash with Forest was a game in which Arsenal simply could not afford to drop points.

The return of club captain Martin Odegaard just before the international break came as welcome news for fans, who will have been pleased to see their skipper star once again. But, it was England international Saka who earned all the praise at the Emirates, delivering a sensational strike in the first 15 minutes to silence any doubters. While he did not link up with his country to face the Republic of Ireland and Greece this month November, Saka immediately leapt into action against Forest.

His moment of magic came following a pass from Odegaard. Saka drove laterally across the box with fluidity and style, before hammering home a mesmerising effort. He impressed again early in the second half when he set up a perfect shot for Thomas Partey to make it 2-0.

Not only did Saka's efforts see Arsenal record their first league win since early October, but the winger also hit a number of statistical feats.

Saka became the first player to be directly involved in eight home goals in the Premier League this season. He also still tops the league in assists, registering eight after setting up Partey. Liverpool's Mohamed Salah sits just behind on six assists.

Overall, Saka's 43 Premier League assists is now one more than manager Mikel Arteta's tally of 42.

According to Opta, his opening goal was also the first time that Saka has scored from an Odegaard assist since February, nine months ago.

His game changing efforts against Forest clearly paid off as Arsenal looked to silence those who had cast doubt over their title chances this season. They will return to action on Tuesday when they face a Ruben Amorim-less Sporting CP in the Champions League.