Former England international and Premier League striker Darren Bent has called for Arsenal talisman Bukayo Saka to be given a rest after his latest injury setback.
Saka has been in exceptional form for Arsenal this season and was called up to caretaker manager Lee Carsley’s England squad for October’s international break.
The 23-year-old was named in the starting line-up in the shocking 2-1 defeat against Greece but was forced off with an injury just six minutes into the second half.
There hasn’t been any indication regarding the severity of his latest setback, but Bent has suggested that the Arsenal talisman needs to be given a break.
“For Saka, he does know his body,” Bent said on talkSPORT. “I think he’s intelligent enough, and I’m sure the medical staff back at Arsenal have probably said listen, 60-70 minutes, come off.
“At international level, I think he plays too much football for England and when I say that, even friendlies, qualifiers, major tournaments.
“He’s one of the most important players, which is why he plays every single week, but it would be nice for him to get a break somewhere because he’s so important to Arsenal and England.
“You just hope this injury that he came off with the other day is just precautionary.”
Saka has been in ridiculous form for Arsenal this season, racking up three goals and seven assists in ten games across all competitions.
The England international has played every game for club and country this season, which is a testament to his remarkable consistency and fitness.
However, his latest setback has the potential to derail Arsenal’s title bid, but there are high hopes that his withdrawal from the defeat by Greece was nothing more than a precautionary measure.
Saka will likely sit out England’s upcoming Nations League game against Finland, but the Gunners hope he returns to full fitness before their trip to Bournemouth after the international break.
