Mikel Arteta provides promising verdict on Bukayo Saka injury as Arsenal winger goes off after nasty tackle in Gunners' thrashing of Ipswich

Saka had only recently returned to action following a hamstring injury that kept him sidelined for three months. However, against Ipswich, the focus shifted from celebrations to concern after Leif Davis lunged into the back of the winger with his studs up, catching him on the ankle. The dangerous tackle drew an immediate response from referee Chris Kavanagh, who brandished a red card for serious foul play.

After receiving on-field treatment, Saka managed to get back on his feet and continued playing. However, he could not continue long, and around the 58th minute, he was substituted and replaced by youngster Ethan Nwaneri. Once on the bench, Saka’s ankle was quickly strapped with an ice pack by a member of the Arsenal medical staff, further stoking fears that the injury could be more serious than first thought.

Speaking to Match of the Day, Arteta clarified: "He was sore because of the tackle, but it doesn't look anything serious."

He added in a press conference: "I haven't seen the slow-motion, I've just seen the normal pace image and yeah, he cuts him from the back. I don't think it's intentional at all, but it's dangerous because he cannot really react to anything, because you cannot see him coming."

Arsenal’s next assignment is a home fixture against Crystal Palace on April 24, where Saka’s fitness will be closely monitored ahead of a potentially season-defining meeting with Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League looming at the end of April.