Saka out for 'many weeks', says Arteta

Bukayo Saka is set to be sidelined for "many weeks" after sustaining a hamstring injury during Arsenal's 5–1 victory over Crystal Palace, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Monday.

 

Speaking at a press conference about the 23-year-old England international's condition, Arteta said: "It is not looking good. He will be out for many weeks."

Saka was seen leaving Selhurst Park on crutches on Saturday, dampening the mood after Arsenal's commanding second win against the Eagles in four days.

Reflecting on the incident after the match, Arteta said: "He felt something in his hamstring. He couldn't continue. He will have to be assessed, so I'm pretty worried about that one."

On Monday, Arteta further revealed that Raheem Sterling had injured his knee and would also be out for many weeks.

When asked if there was concern Saka might not return before the season's end, Arteta dismissed such fears.

"No (there's no fear)," he said. "I'm very optimistic he'll be back before the end of the season."

The Spaniard described the setback as part of the "development of a player".

"It could have been much worse. It could have been something else that can take you out for a year," he said.

"It's how you react to that, how you overcome that situation and it's a great learning process for him as well.

"It is what it is. He's injured, we cannot change it. We're going to use this time now to help him."

Saka plays a vital role in Arsenal's attack, having scored five Premier League goals and provided 10 assists this season. His absence will undoubtedly be felt.

Arteta mentioned he was "putting some ideas together" to address the winger's absence.

"We went through the period with Martin (Odegaard) and the period with five, six defenders missing," he said. "We're taking it with positive energy."

Arsenal, who have finished as Premier League runners-up in the past two seasons, will host relegation-threatened Ipswich on Friday. The Gunners are currently third in the table, six points behind leaders Liverpool, having played a game more.