Injured Arsenal star’s lay-off could extend into April as fresh update emerges | OneFootball

Arsenal were hoping to have Bukayo Saka back in training by the final week of February, but his lay-off may now extend into April following his surgery, according to the Daily Mail.

The Gunners star was injured against Crystal Palace on December 21, and he went under the knife last week after the club decided it was best for him following consultation with a specialist.

Arsenal may need to wait until April before Saka can return to full fitness, but manager Mikel Arteta will hope he is back sooner rather than later.

Arsenal initially feared his hamstring had become detached from the bone and immediately sent him for a scan after the game instead of waiting until the following day.

Suffering a hamstring avulsion would have required surgery without a need to consult a specialist, and Saka would have been out for at least six months.

Fortunately for Arsenal, he could spend less than four months out before he is available for action again.

A return in March has not been completely ruled out, and England manager Thomas Tuchel and his staff will also be monitoring his situation.

The Three Lions play their first two World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia in March 21 and the German will be keen to have the Arsenal star for his opening two games in charge.

However, the Gunners will be desperate to protect the 23-year-old and could ask for permission from England to have him omitted from the first international break of 2025.

Arsenal have won both of the games they have played in Saka’s absence with Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli stepping up in his absence.

However, they need him back on the pitch as soon as possible, as his return will hand their title chances a much-needed boost.