Mikel Arteta has warned Bukayo Saka that he must “learn to protect himself on the pitch” with the winger targeted by defenders.
The 21-year old has played the most consecutive matches of any player in the league this season and Arteta has said that he must learn to keep his focus even when he’s getting kicked about by defenders.
“Bukayo needs to learn and improve how he protects himself on the pitch within the rules.
“There was a very thin line with the way he reacted last week and he cannot allow that to take him out of the game and lose his focus. He has been getting kicked since he was 10 years old.
“Obviously he attracts a lot of attention. It’s totally normal for the opposition to try to stop creative players and restrict the ball getting to them. That’s a challenge he has to face every week.”
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The Englisman’s excellent performances this season have seen talks start over a new five-year contract, with an agreement expected to be found very soon.
🚨 Arsenal have an agreement in principle on a new contract for Bukayo Saka. Long-term deal for 21yo England international attacker not signed + may take some time to complete, but now in place. Fantastic news for #AFC @TheAthleticFC after @SamiMokbel81_DM https://t.co/cCjpgD29Ut
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) February 23, 2023
In the meantime, Arsenal will get ready to maintain top spot in the Premier League this afternoon when they play Leicester City at the King Power stadium at 15:00.