Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta on Saka’s fitness, Lewis-Skelly England call-up and playing Real Madrid | OneFootball

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta says Bukayo Saka is making “very good progress” in his recovery from hamstring surgery.

The winger has been absent since December after suffering the hamstring injury but has stepped up his recovery of late.

And Arteta provided a positive update on the 23-year-old: “He’s getting closer, he’s stepping up and making a very good progress I would say.

“So, let’s see when we start to throw him in with the team, how he reacts and how fit he can get quickly.”

Arteta’s latest update has raised hopes that Saka could be available for Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid in April.

The Gunners set up a tie with the reigning Champions League winners after beating PSV 9-3 on aggregate in the round of 16 and Arteta says he is relishing facing Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

“It’s a fascinating draw,” he said.

“I think you’re going to play against a club with the biggest and more history in the competition and I’m very excited to play against them but before that we have two big matches in the Premier League.”

Arteta also spoke of his pride at seeing youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly called up to the England squad for the first time.

“We were all really, really happy because it’s a really nice story and a story that gives a lot of hope to a lot of young players and that in six or seven months your career can change dramatically, drastically for the good,” he said.

“It’s something for people to be inspired. I think it hasn’t happened because he was lucky. I think he pushed for every chance to happen and the way he’s done it. So, yeah, a good example.

“Very proud of him, it’s a huge moment for him, and for the club as well. One of our graduates getting the call for England, it’s a massive thing, so very happy.”