Bukayo Saka in action for Arsenal against Fulham (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Bukayo Saka’s hamstring injury has come at the ‘perfect time’ for Arsenal.
That’s according to former Tottenham, Newcastle and England striker Les Ferdinand, who believes the winger could benefit from a break over the festive period.
‘It would be a big loss’ – Eddie Howe ‘nervous’ over Arsenal and PSG future, Alexander Isak!
Saka has arguably been Arsenal’s best player this season, with nine goals and 13 assists in 24 appearances in all competitions. That includes an impressive return of five goals and 10 assists in 16 Premier League outings.
However, Saka lasted just 24 minutes of Arsenal’s clash with Crystal Palace on Saturday evening before going off with a hamstring injury.
The Gunners cruised to a 5-1 win at Selhurst Park without Saka but could miss him over the festive period, particularly with EFL Cup and FA Cup draws in January against Newcastle United and the Manchester United, respectively.
Is Bukayo Saka’s injury a blessing in disguise?
“He felt something in his hamstring, he couldn’t continue,” the Arsenal boss said Mikel Arteta said of Saka. “He will have to be evaluated, very concerned about it.”
While Saka’s absence is certainly a blow for Arsenal, Ferdinand believes it comes at the best possible time, giving him the chance to rest and return fresh for the final sprint.
“If there was a perfect time to get injured, it would be now. If he was going to go out for a spell it would be over this Christmas period,” said the Sky Sports pundit (via TBR).
“You look at the games they have, without the Champions League, it gives him a bit of time to rest, we’re talking about players who play a lot of games, I don’t think he’s had a period where he’s been out for any period of time.
“I think if he’s out for a little bit of time, it’ll put them in a good position when it comes to January, February.”
