Arteta provides early update on Saka injury amid World Cup doubts

The England international limped off the pitch in the early stages of the Gunners’ win over Nottingham Forest.

Mikel Arteta believes Bukayo Saka’s injury against Nottingham Forest is not serious amid fears that he might miss World Cup.

Following a foul by Renan Lodi, Saka had to leave the pitch only 25 minutes into the game. Mikel Arteta then replaced the winger with Reiss Nelson, who went on to score twice in Arsenal’s 5-0 win.

Asked whether the injury puts Saka’s World Cup chances at risk, Arteta said after the game: “Hopefully not.

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“It was a bad kick that he suffered right at the start of the game, he was limping for a bit. But I don’t see it as anything further than that.”

Saka’s injury will surely concern England, who see him as a starter at the right-hand side of their attacking line.

Gareth Southgate is already dealing with the possible absence of Kyle Walker and Reece James. However, according to Arteta, he shouldn’t worry too much about Saka’s upcoming tests.

The English forward might still miss Arsenal’s upcoming match against FC Zurich in the Europa League. But initial assessments show he’ll be able to return to Arsenal’s squad for their derby against Chelsea next weekend.