Buakyo Saka was not in the Arsenal squad for Arsenal’s must-win game against Everton (Picture: Getty)
Bukayo Saka was not included in the Arsenal squad for their final game of the season against Everton.
The England international has been in sensational form this season but will play no part in a game that will decide whether or not Mikel Arteta’s side end the season as champions.
Saka was forced off during the closing stages of last weekend’s win over Manchester United after colliding with the advertising boards, but missed the Everton clash after suffering a muscle stain.
A brief Arsenal club statement read: ‘Bukayo Saka missed out on today’s squad due to a slight muscle issue.’
Speaking ahead of the game, Mikel Arteta confirmed Saka was gutted to have been ruled out having been such a key figure for his team over the course of the last nine months.
‘Unfortunately he picked up a small muscle injury in training and I could not play,’ said the Arsenal manager.
‘We have some great players and Martinelli steps in and we need to win anyway.
‘He’s been incredibly consistent throughout the season he was gutted last night when he got that injury.’
In order for Arsenal to leapfrog Manchester City on the final day, the Gunners need to beat Everton and hope West Ham can do them a favour at the Etihad.
Everton, however, arrived in north London in excellent form having preserved their top flight status earlier this month, and Sean Dyche was relishing the chance to spoil the party.
‘I’m not bothered with it,’ said Dyche, referring to the possibility of Arsenal winning the title on the final day.
‘It’s more about us continuing the thought process and mentality we’ve put in place this season.
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‘We’re on a good show of form for our own reasons and it’s about keeping that mentality going into the final game. It’s more focusing on us going and performing.
‘It’ll be very difficult. The way they’ve performed and grown as the season’s gone on, they’re a top side.
‘Currently there’s another top side who are doing just as good, if not a slightly better job – as the league table would suggest. They’re having a great season.’
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