Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has suggested to the club’s official website that Bukayo Saka is not going to be dropped from the team now.
Saka was in action for Arsenal in their Europa League game against Benfica away from home on Thursday evening.
The 19-year-old winger scored for the Gunners to help them secure a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their Europa League Round of 32 tie.
The England international, who can also operate as a left-back, has established himself as a key figure in the current Arsenal team, and Arteta has suggested that the teenager will not be dropped now.
Arteta told Arsenal’s official website about managing Saka’s minutes: “It is (difficult) at the moment because he’s been a real threat.
“He’s involved in a lot of goals all the time and his consistent performances make him a starter obviously. So it’s a fine balance, but at the same time he’s 19 years old and we have to protect him.”
Sensible stance
Saka is now a regular in the Arsenal attack, and given his performances this season, it would be very tough for Arteta to simply drop him anytime soon.
True, the teenager will have a game or two where he does not play well, but Arteta should still persevere with him.
According to WhoScored, the teenager has made 20 starts and one substitute appearances in the Premier League for the Gunners so far this season, scoring five goals and providing two assists in the process.
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