Arsenal legend, Ian Wright, has urged manager Mikel Arteta to hand new signing Noni Madueke a starting role in place of injured Bukayo Saka when the Gunners travel to Anfield next weekend.
Saka limped off in the 53rd minute clutching his hamstring during Arsenal’s emphatic 5-0 demolition of Liverpool at the Emirates on Saturday. The winger had earlier netted the final goal after new striker Viktor Gyokeres and defender Jurrien Timber both scored braces.
Club captain Martin Odegaard was also substituted earlier in the game with a shoulder complaint. Speaking after the match, Arteta admitted Saka’s injury “looked significant,” raising concerns that the England international could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Reacting to the setback, former Arsenal striker Wright told Premier League Productions that Saka could be out for “four to six weeks” and advised Arteta to make use of Madueke, who prefers playing off the right flank.
“But hamstring, we’re talking four or maybe six weeks,” Wright said. “This is why the signings are important. Madueke can play this side and this is why you bring him in. I’m not saying he’s going to play like Saka, but fill that gap until Saka comes back because he’s got a chance now.”
Arsenal have enjoyed a perfect start to their Premier League campaign, sitting top of the table with two wins from two matches. Their clash with Liverpool at Anfield is already being billed as an early-season test of their title credentials.
