I’m happy with everyone, especially Martinelli and Trossard
Arteta: Saka is not injured, his foot hurts
Mikel Arteta eased Arsenal’s concerns over Bukayo Saka’s injury, saying he has no serious problem.
When a severe foul was committed on Bukayo Saka in the first half of the match against Ipswich, the concern was visible in the eyes of Arsenal players and their manager Mikel Arteta. He substituted Saka in the second half, and the image of ice being applied to the right leg of this Arsenal star was quite worrying.
Mikel Arteta ended these concerns after his team’s 4-0 victory over Ipswich and said Saka had a minor issue and his foot hurts, but there is no serious problem and the player is not injured.
Arsenal’s performance?
I am very happy with the team’s performance. The first thirty-five minutes were one of the best thirty-five minutes we have played this season. But after they got the red card, the shape of the game completely changed. But overall, it was a very positive afternoon.
Reason for using Trossard as a striker?
Trossard is ready to play in many positions. He has the ability. Our team showed that it has the ability to adapt quickly to changes, and this is something we desperately need.
Was Saka injured? And did the foul by the Ipswich player deserve a red card?
About the foul, I must say this is a decision the referee made, and I have no opinion. But about the injury, I must say his foot was just a little sore, and there is no serious problem.
Were you worried about Saka when that foul happened?
Yes, of course. Especially considering the conditions we have now. When your foot is hit in that area, a serious injury can occur.
Rotational use of players?
In any case, in every match, we have to send 11 players to the field and can make five or seven changes.
Since November, it was the first time that Saka, Ben White, and Odegaard played together. Your opinion?
Fantastic, isn’t it?
Did you change the midfield structure?
We have to adapt ourselves and place the players in positions and structures that make controlling the midfield very difficult for the opponent.
Merino’s brilliant performance?
Seeing him in midfield was new for me too, but he did an exceptional job.
Martinelli’s fifth goal?
It was fantastic. He is in excellent condition now. His physical readiness is complete, and he quickly gets himself into dangerous positions. I enjoy seeing his readiness.