Arsenal star Bukayo Saka’s hamstring injury cast a dark cloud over an excellent week for the team as they defeated Crystal Palace twice in a matter of days. The winger came off the bench in the first game against the Eagles, assisting one goal in a 3-2 win to advance to the EFL Cup semi-finals. He started the Premier League match as well, but came off after just over 20 minutes of action.
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Mikel Arteta revealed in his press conference on December 23 that Saka had suffered a torn hamstring in his right leg. This means he will be out for at least 5-6 weeks, with further updates expected from both the Spaniard as well as the club. While this is a major blow for Arsenal, they will have to adapt and come up with solutions.
To that tune, there have been calls for Arteta to use Hale End talent Ethan Nwaneri on the right flank to replace Saka. The teenager has often come off the bench to play a more central role. However, fans and pundits alike believe that he has the tools to play out wide.
Analysing why Nwaneri is deemed suitable for the right flank
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The 17-year-old came through the ranks at Arsenal’s Hale End academy and made a big splash with his performances for their various youth teams.
Nwaneri scored 15 goals and bagged five assists in 23 appearances for the U18s, scored 11 goals and bagged five assists in 28 appearances for the U21s, and has scored four goals in 18 senior appearances for the Gunners.
A left-footed player much alike Saka, Nwaneri possesses game sense and courage well beyond his years. His touch and technical ability is immaculate, and he is more of free-flowing player who likes to display his flair in moments, which slightly sets him apart from Saka.
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Now with the England international out of action, Arteta could use this moment to bring Ethan Nwaneri into the spotlight, much like what happened with Saka when he first came into the first team.
Related Items:Latest Ethan Nwaneri News | Transfer News | Injury News and Update
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