Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta plays down Bukayo Saka injury concerns

Mikel Arteta has suggested that winger Bukayo Saka will be fit for Sunday's North London derby, despite seemingly picking up an injury versus Oxford United on Monday night.

Saka was a surprise starter for the Gunners as Arteta named a stronger first XI than expected for the FA Cup third round tie at the League One outfit.

The Premier League leaders eventually prevailed by a 3-0 scoreline, although all three goals came after the hour mark.

Mohamed Elneny opened the scoring for the visitors, before Eddie Nketiah continued his recent encouraging form with a double in the final quarter.

Arsenal now progress through to a fourth-round tie at Manchester City, a showdown between the top two teams in the Premier League standings.

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However, with Arsenal facing rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, the immediate concern was regarding a potential fitness issue sustained by Saka.

The England international twice required treatment for knocks before he was eventually withdrawn from the action with 15 minutes remaining.

While that was to allow Emile Smith Rowe to make his return after a long layoff, Arteta was naturally quizzed about Saka in his post-match press conference.

Nevertheless, the Spaniard gave a short reply when asked about the wide player, stating that "he's fine" with regards to his participation at the weekend.

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Saka has accumulated 20 starts and four substitute outings for Arsenal in all competitions this season, contributing seven goals and six assists.

The academy graduate had completed 90 minutes on each occasion since the World Cup before he was given quarter-of-an-hour off at the Kassam Stadium.

Club officials are currently attempting to extend the player's contract past the end of 2024 in a bid to fend off widespread interest in his signature.

Liverpool and Manchester City are among the clubs who have been linked with an approach for Saka in the past.