Granit Xhaka has backed Bukayo Saka to show a reaction to his West Ham missed penalty in Friday’s game against Southampton.

Bukayo Saka missed his first penalty in an Arsenal shirt at the weekend, with West Ham taking advantage to equalise and earn a point against the Gunners at the London Stadium.

Speaking after the match, Granit Xhaka argued that’s just a normal part of football, and insisted that we’ll see a reaction from the winger in Arsenal’s next game.

“This guy is so young, he’s 21. He’s so strong mentally. We are not worried about him,” Xhaka said. “This is one more experience for his future.

“He will do it (bounce back) and he will show a reaction on Friday (against Southampton). It (missing penalties) happens, not only to him but to bigger players than him. This is part of the job, part of his career.

“It will not be the first and it will not be the last. This is the first I think since he was in the first team. So, if on Friday there is another penalty, I will push him to take it again.”

Arsenal host Southampton at the Emirates Stadium on Friday, and there’s no doubt that this is a must-win game.

As it stands, Arsenal still have an advantage over Manchester City. If the two teams draw at the Etihad, and both win the rest of their games, Mikel Arteta’s side will win the title.

But if Arsenal slip up at any point from now until the end of the season, City would be able to steal in and take the trophy, even if they don’t beat Arsenal themselves.

There’s also the psychological aspect of going into the game at the Etihad with a seven-point lead. There’s a chance to put City on the back foot, to force them to take risks.

If the Gunners are going to pick up the results they need over the next few weeks, they’ll need Saka to be at his best.

Arguably the team’s Player of the Season so far, there’s little doubt around the club that he’ll step up to the task.