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Mikel Arteta reveals Bukayo Saka’s chances of facing Man City
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed Bukayo Saka is “in contention” to face Manchester City on Sunday.
The winger has had recent fitness issues and was finally taken off the field during the 2-1 loss to Lens last week, which has left supporters nervous ahead of the visit from the defending champions.
In the opening of the press conference on Friday, Arteta provided an update on Saka’s health.
“He’s in contention, let’s see how he progresses from here to Sunday,” the boss revealed. “He had to leave the pitch, that’s never good news but let’s see how he recovers.”
Later asked whether a scan had confirmed Saka’s injury was minor, Arteta stressed: “In contention. That’s it. I’m not a doctor. That’s what they told me.”
Midfielder Thomas Partey, who has been sidelined since suffering a groin injury in late August, is one player who will undoubtedly return to Arsenal’s lineup.
“He is ahead of schedule, that’s for sure,” Arteta said of the Ghana international. “We wanted to have him in the squad if we needed to, the way the game panned out we had other necessities and didn’t use him. He will be in the squad.”
Partey began the season as Arteta’s first-choice right-back but his injury opened the door for Ben White to reclaim his spot for the past four games.
“Really happy with Ben,” Arteta said. “He’s been a consistent player for us, he’s always been available for us.
“He’s developed in a great way as a centre-back and especially as a full-back because there were some question marks as well. He’s got the character of a fighter, a character that is needed in the squad, especially at this level. I’m really happy to have him.”