Raheem Sterling announcement confirmed at Arsenal after Bukayo Saka news
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Mikel Arteta has confirmed news about Arsenal winger Raheem Sterling after revealing Bukayo Saka is set to miss extensive time with injury, according to James Olley.
Arteta expressed concern about star man Saka, saying he was “pretty worried” after the 22-year-old held his hamstring during Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday, 21 December [BBC Sport].
Chelsea loanee Sterling was also absent from the squad, despite starting just a few days earlier in the Carabao Cup quarter-final win against The Eagles in a 3-2 win.
The Spanish coach has now confirmed that both players will be out injured during the busy festive period.
ESPN journalist Olley shared the news in three separate tweets, revealing Arteta said that Saka has “torn his hamstring muscle” and will be out for “many weeks” while the Chelsea loanee is dealing with a “knee problem” that will also keep him out for “weeks”.
Arsenal injuries continue to dent title hopes
Football Insider opinion
The Gunners have had a season that has not impressed fans, as they currently sit third as Christmas approaches.
They're six points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand, and have already drawn six matches.
Injuries earlier in the season to Saka and Martin Ødegaard have forced the coach to search for alternatives, trying Leandro Trossard and 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, but the team's form has taken a hit.
Sterling could have seen this as an opportunity to finally secure a run in the team, as he is “determined to force his way in”. But the timing is unfortunate for the 30-year-old.
Fans have also been frustrated with his performances, and with Gabriel Martinelli not firing, calls for another attacker have grown this season.
The club has been linked to strikers such as Alexander Isak and a return of interest in Dusan Vlahovic, but it remains to be seen if they'll spend big in January.
With two injuries to wingers, there could be an opening for the unfavoured Marcus Rashford.
It's already been described as a “hell of a signing” if it happens, but it would mean another player, unfavoured at his own club and on high wages – a similar story to Sterling.
Arteta’s side don't need a player with a run of form like that; they need an attacker who can make an impact like Saka. But there aren’t many available that can match their star forward.
In other news, a Liverpool player took to social media to respond to Arsenal fans after Saka’s injury.
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The post Raheem Sterling announcement confirmed at Arsenal after Bukayo Saka news appeared first on Football Insider.
