Arteta Expresses Concern Over Saka And Rice Injuries After Chelsea Match

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Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, expressed concern over the injuries of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice after their 1-1 draw with Chelsea. Saka left the field in the 81st minute due to a leg issue, while Rice exited ten minutes earlier with a broken toe. Despite these setbacks, both players were named in England's squad for upcoming matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.

Arteta is sceptical about their availability for international duty, which could be problematic for England's interim manager, Lee Carsley. "It doesn’t look good because for two players of that importance to say they want to come off is unusual," Arteta stated post-match. "I don’t expect them to be fit [for the international break] because if not, they don’t come off."

Saka has already missed two matches this season due to an injury sustained during the last international break. Arsenal has faced numerous injury challenges with key players like Martin Odegaard, who made his first start since August against Chelsea. These ongoing issues have been a significant concern for Arteta.

The manager hopes that after the international break, his team will return fully fit and ready to compete. "What I’m praying for is that after the international break, we have the team fully physically equipped, that they are available and that they are fit because it’s been a nightmare for eight weeks," he mentioned.

Arteta highlighted the persistent doubts and problems affecting both those unable to play and those who can still participate. The continuous injury woes have disrupted Arsenal's plans and performance throughout the season.