Bukayo Saka is back in full first-team training with Arsenal, and he could be available for selection against Manchester City, according to a report.
Sami Mokbel reports for the BBC that Bukayo Saka has returned to first-team training with Arsenal after his recent hamstring injury, taking part in full training with the squad.
Mokbel adds that the early indications are that Saka could be available for selection in Sunday’s matchday squad against Manchester City.
Conversely, Mokbel’s sources insist Martin Odegaard may not be ready for the match, despite also stepping up his training after injury.
There was a small hint on Saturday that perhaps Saka or Odegaard could be available for the squad to face Manchester City, with Max Dowman dropping back down to the Arsenal u21s.
Dowman may only be 15 years old, but he provides solid cover on the right wing and in midfield if both Saka and Odegaard are out.
On the other hand, it could be argued Dowman just needed the minutes, ahead of a possible first-team appearance for the Gunners in the League Cup in midweek. But Mokbel’s report suggests the true reason for Dowman’s first-team absence could be a mixture of both factors.
Even if Saka is available to feature in Arsenal’s matchday squad against Manchester City on Sunday afternoon, that doesn’t necessarily mean he’s ready to start.
The winger’s last appearance was over four weeks ago now, so he’s not going to be as sharp as his teammates. Particularly Noni Madueke, who has been in strong form in Saka’s absence.
Perhaps the most likely outcome now is that Madueke starts the match and Saka is available as an impact substitute.