Bukayo Saka in Arsenal's match against Fulham (Photo by Ryan Pearce/Getty Images)
Bukayo Saka's hamstring injury came at the 'perfect time' for Arsenal.
That's according to former Tottenham, Newcastle and England striker Les Ferdinand, who believes the winger could benefit from a rest over the festive period.
Saka has arguably been Arsenal's best player this season, scoring nine goals and providing 13 assists in 24 appearances in all competitions. This includes an impressive comeback of five goals and 10 assists in 16 Premier League matches.
However, Saka lasted just 24 minutes in Arsenal's clash with Crystal Palace on Saturday night before being forced off with a hamstring injury.
The Gunners recorded a 5-1 win at Selhurst Park without Saka, but they could miss him over the festive period, especially with January's UEFA Cup and FA Cup ties against Newcastle United and Manchester United, respectively.
Bukayo Saka's injury a blessing in disguise?
“He felt something in his hamstring and couldn't continue,” the Arsenal coach said Mikel Arteta said about Saka. “He will have to be evaluated and he is very concerned about this.”
While Saka's absence is undoubtedly a blow for Arsenal, Ferdinand believes he comes at the best possible time, giving him the chance to rest and come back refreshed for the final race.
“If there was a perfect time to be injured, it would be now. If he were to miss any period, it would be over this Christmas period,” the Sky Sports pundit said (via). TBR).
“You look at the upcoming matches. There is no Champions League. It gives him some time to rest. We are talking about players who play a lot of matches. I think he has not had a period in which he was absent.” Any length of time.
“I think if he's out for a while now, it will stand them in good stead when he starts around January or February.”
