Arsenal fans face an anxious wait as Bukayo Saka undergoes a late fitness test to determine his availability for the crucial Premier League clash against Brighton & Hove Albion this weekend.

Saka, a vital component in the Gunners’ recent form, was absent from the squad that secured a 2-0 victory over Luton Town on Wednesday.

Manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that a Friday’s training session will be the deciding factor in Saka’s participation.

“We will know with our training session in a few hours,” Arteta said at his press conference on Friday morning. “We will know whether he is fit or not.”

Addressing concerns about Saka potentially burning out in the season’s final stretch, Arteta reassured fans about the young winger’s ability to bounce back. He emphasised Saka’s strength, determination, and desire to be on the pitch.

“I’m super positive, I think he’s going to fly and be so decisive,” Arteta said. “Because he’s so strong, and how much he wants it. When you talk to him and how excited he is about what is coming, he wants to be there. He’s getting better and better and it’s normal to have little niggles. You have kicks and he’s gone through a lot of that in the last two or three years and now look at the way he’s performing

With Arsenal on a 10-game unbeaten streak in the Premier League, a win against Brighton is crucial to maintain their title charge, especially as Liverpool and City both picked up maximum points this week.