Bukayo Saka is “ready to go” for Arsenal after three months out with a hamstring injury.

The 23-year-old England forward, who has scored nine goals across all competitions this season, has not played since Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on December 21.

Ahead of Tuesday’s match against Fulham, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Saka is fully fit, stating, “Bukayo is ready to go. All the necessary precautions have been taken, and now it’s just about getting him on the pitch at the right time. He’s eager to play and pushing to return.”

Saka, who underwent hamstring surgery in December, is now poised to feature in the match against Fulham at the Emirates. Arteta confirmed, “Yes, he could start.”

The return of Saka comes as a significant boost to Arsenal, who sit second in the Premier League but are 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, with nine games remaining.

READ ALSO : Arsenal beat Chelsea as Fulham stun Spurs

Though their title hopes appear slim, they remain in the Champions League quarter-finals, with the first leg against Real Madrid scheduled for April 8.

Arteta expressed the positive impact of Saka’s return, noting, “It’s more the energy he brings. He’s missed doing what he loves most — being with the team, playing, training, and competing. His return at such a crucial time of the season is a big lift for both him and the squad.”

The manager also highlighted that, despite being sidelined for three months, Saka’s previous experience in the team made him ready to make an immediate impact. “He hasn’t played in three months, but he’s been with us for the last four years. Three months is just a small part of that,” Arteta added.

Additionally, Arteta confirmed that defender Jurrien Timber has recovered from illness, but Riccardo Calafiori is set to miss some time with a knee injury sustained during international duty with Italy.

The Arsenal boss also spoke highly of the club’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta, who was appointed on Sunday.

The 53-year-old Italian, formerly of Atletico Madrid, takes over from Edu in the role. Arteta expressed confidence in Berta’s ability to make an impact, saying, “He has the experience, personality, and winning mentality that will be contagious throughout the club.”

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