Team news

Arteta on Saka’s availability for Burnley

Saka update

Mikel Arteta will make a late call on the fitness of Bukayo Saka for Saturday’s game against Burnley.

Bukayo came off in the 85th minute of Wednesday’s 2-0 win at home to Sevilla in the UEFA Champions League, and Mikel is hopeful that it’s nothing serious.

“B had to leave the pitch because he was in quite a lot of pain,” he explained. “He didn't train yesterday and let's see if he can make it tomorrow.”

In terms of the rest of the team news, Mikel confirmed that Jurrien Timber and Thomas Partey are both definitely unavailable, while Emile Smith Rowe will “probably” miss out as well.

“There might be a few more,” he added. “A few are still in contention. We need to give them 24 more hours to give them a chance to be involved in the game, but we won’t know anything until tomorrow.”

Asked to expand on Thomas' situation, Mikel said: "He’s progressing really well but it was a significant injury. Hopefully it’s going to be weeks and not months and he’s working towards that. He needs support and hopefully the injury will heal in the right way and we’ll have him back, because he’s a big player for us.

As for the latest on Martin Odegaard, he added: "He’s still racing (against the clock). He’s trying everything that he can so let’s see. It’s a possibility."