Mikel Arteta provides latest injury update on Bukayo Saka | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta says Bukayo Saka’s injury is not expected to keep him out for long.

The winger was due to start in Arsenal’s 4-0 win over Leeds on Saturday but pulled out injured in the warm up, and was replaced by Noni Madueke.

Arteta says he is unsure whether Saka will be able to return for Arsenal’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Chelsea on Tuesday, however.

“We have to wait,” Arteta said.

“Today he was better, but we have to see how he responds and make a decision.

“It doesn’t look like something too serious, whether he’s available for tomorrow or the weekend we will see.”

But Arteta is set to be without Mikel Merino for the long term after the Spaniard suffered a serious foot injury which requires surgery.

Asked if Merino could return this season, Arteta said: “Let’s see.

“It’s a very rare injury so we have to wait and see once we have the surgery, how that reacts daily. 

“Obviously monitor it throughout the weeks post-surgery and see. I know Mikel is going to do absolutely everything that he possibly can to come back as quick as possible but as well you have to respect the healing process and the fact that obviously it’s an injury that is quite rare.”

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