The Hale End graduate was seen feeling very uncomfortable while straining his hamstring, with the latest update not encouraging play.

Saka left Selhurst Park on crutchescausing fear to grow around Arsenal as their star player appeared to be in serious trouble after the match.

Ethan Nwaneri is the real replacement for Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka

It has been suggested that Saka will be absent for several weeks after injuring his right hamstring in a major blow for the Gunners.

Arsenal forwards asked to step in in Saka’s absencewith a long way to go to ensure the winger isn’t missed too much.

Considering the 23-year-old has played a direct role in 44% of Arsenal’s Premier League goals this season, Arteta has the difficult task of sufficiently replacing the superstar.

A few Arsenal fans want Gabriel Martinelli to replace Saka on the right side, which would see the Brazilian swap the left side to compensate for the Englishman’s absence.

While this could work well for both the player and Arsenal, moving Martinelli’s position is not the most practical option.

Considering what Saka offers the Gunners, many would point to the Hale End graduate’s ability to deceive the opposition and cut in with his trusty left foot from the right.

This skill is only achievable by another Arsenal striker and it is Ethan Nwaneria left-footed striker who certainly has the ability to create and cause problems.

Arteta is short on resources when it comes to right-handed left-footers, but Nwaneri could be the answer to the problem. Arsenal manager bad luck if he tries his luck with the 17 year old.

What Mikel Arteta said about Nwaneri’s versatility

While the teenager is a central attacking midfielder by trade, Arteta believes Nwaneri can play in different positions.

The boss told the media ahead of Arsenal’s EFL Cup clash against Crystal Palace that the youngster has the potential to play a number of roles.

“He (Nwaneri) can play as a right attacking midfielder, left attacking midfielder and winger. I also think he can develop as a nine,” admitted Arteta.

Already, everything indicates that the manager would trust Nwaneri to cover areas other than his preferred number 10 role in the near future.

Saka’s injury comes at a frustrating time but it could benefit players such as Nwaneri, who Arteta asked to use more although he is cautious about its development.

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