England confirm final Bukayo Saka decision

Upon undergoing a review of his injury with England’s medical team, Bukayo Saka will now continue his recovery at Arsenal.

Bukayo Saka has officially withdrawn from the England squad for the upcoming international break.

Saka, who missed Arsenal’s 1-0 win against Manchester City on Sunday, hadn’t trained because of a hamstring injury. This prompted Gunners manager Mikel Arteta to rule him out of the upcoming international fixtures.

Now England have confirmed Saka’s withdrawal. The 22-year-old reported to St. George’s Park on Monday. After the national team’s medical staff assessed his injury, they decided to release him from England duty.

Saka’s absence means he will miss England’s friendly against Australia on Friday and the Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy next Tuesday.

The Three Lions have not called up a replacement, having already selected 25 players for the forthcoming fixtures.

Saka will now resume his recovery at Arsenal, who hope he’ll be fit to face Chelsea in an upcoming Premier League clash. The game will take place at Stamford Bridge on October 21.

The England international has been a standout performer for Arteta’s side this season. He has contributed five goals and five assists in 10 appearances in all competitions, including four goals in the Premier League.

In a parallel development, Arsenal also hope that William Saliba will be ready for the Chelsea match. The defender withdrew from the France squad due to a toe injury.

As it stands, Arsenal rank second in the Premier League with 20 points from eight games (W6 D2).

An update from the #ThreeLions camp, as @BukayoSaka87 withdraws after being assessed by England's medical team.

Speedy recovery, Bukayo! 👊

— England (@England) October 9, 2023