Arsenal
Why Mkhitaryan’s injury is a blessing in disguise for this youngster
Arsenal confirmed on Monday that winger/striker Henrikh Mkhitaryan is set to spend six weeks in the recuperating room as result of the injury he sustained in last week’s EFL Cup fixture against Tottenham which ended 2-0 in their defeat.
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The former Manchester United man hasn’t really impressed with the Gunners so far this season.
Four goals in 17 matches isn’t a great achievement for a player of his calibre but that’s not to say he hasn’t contributed immensely to the obvious changes taking place at the Emirates Stadium since Emery took over from Arsene Wenger in July.
With some youngsters, especially Bukayo Saka, coming through from the Hale end academy, Emery might not feel the impact of his absence.
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Counting six weeks from now, it means Mkhitaryan would fully recover from the injury setback in the first week of February.
With Saka already getting used to the first-team’s playing pattern, there is no need splashing cash on one player who would end up sitting on the bench once the Armenian star returned from injury.
Saka has featured in two matches for the senior team and he put up eye-catching displays in both games.
He has been training regularly with the first-team in recent weeks and that has helped him develop his game.
Mkhitaryan and Welbeck’s injuries setback offers Emery the best chance to give the youngster a rare start against Brighton at the Amex Stadium later today.
The 17-year-old striker might not start against Liverpool and Manchester City due to the quality and current form of both clubs.
However, his performance against Brighton — if given the opportunity — would determine whether he’s ripe enough to feature regularly in the first team.
Bukayo Saka, Irrespective of his age, has featured for England’s U-19 side and he has played for the Gunners U23 side.
His skills from the wings — as we saw against FK Qarabag in the Europa League’s last group game — is nothing short of brilliance for a player of his age and class.
His speed and ability to make inviting, beautiful and in-swinging crosses makes him the perfect man to replace the injured star.
As much as his physical appearance and strength might be a huge concern for him and his manager, the youngster possesses great dribbling abilities to cover up for his shortcomings.
