December 26th 2024.
Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, was recently seen with Martin Keown discussing the team's upcoming matches. Keown, a former player for Arsenal, shared his belief that one of the team's young players, Ethan Nwaneri, is ready to step up and fill in for the injured Bukayo Saka on the right wing. Saka has been a key player for Arteta's side this season, scoring five goals and providing 10 assists in the Premier League alone.
Unfortunately, Arsenal suffered a setback just before Christmas when Saka was forced to leave the game against Crystal Palace due to a hamstring injury. Scans later revealed that Saka could be out for a significant amount of time, possibly until March. This news is a huge blow to Arsenal's hopes of winning the Premier League title, and the club is now considering entering the transfer market to find a replacement.
With Raheem Sterling also injured, Arteta does not have a ready-made replacement for Saka during the busy Christmas period. Keown suggests that Nwaneri, who is only 17 years old and has yet to start a Premier League game, could be the answer. Nwaneri has made a few impressive appearances off the bench and in cup competitions this season.
Keown believes that Nwaneri has the potential to step up and fill the void left by Saka's injury. He suggests that Arteta could try playing Nwaneri in a more advanced position, on the right wing, instead of his usual role in the midfield. Keown also points out that Gabriel Jesus, who recently returned to form, could help carry the goalscoring burden in Saka's absence.
Arteta had previously hinted at the possibility of Nwaneri playing in a wider position as he continues to develop with the first team. The manager sees potential in Nwaneri to play as a right or left attacking midfielder, as well as a striker. Nwaneri has a natural ability to score goals, and Arteta is keen to see him develop in this area.
Arsenal will be without Saka for the first time in their upcoming match against Ipswich Town at the Emirates. This will be a test for the team as they adapt to playing without one of their star players. However, with players like Nwaneri in their ranks, they have the potential to overcome this setback and continue their fight for the Premier League title.
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