In a call to action, former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre has urged the team’s manager Mikel Arteta to provide much-needed rest to forward Bukayo Saka.
Silvestre’s concern stems from the belief that Arteta is overplaying the young England international in numerous matches.
Saka recently set a club record by making his 86th consecutive Premier League appearance during last weekend’s 2-2 draw against Tottenham in the North London derby.
Unfortunately, Saka sustained an injury in the closing stages of the match and was unable to complete the full 90 minutes.
As a result, he had to sit out Wednesday’s Carabao Cup third-round victory over Brentford, leaving his availability for Saturday’s match against Bournemouth uncertain.
Speaking to bettingexpert, Silvestre stated, “Bukayo Saka is playing too much. He operates in a position requiring frequent sprinting and is heavily challenged by defenders. He hasn’t been given enough rest.”
“If Arsenal wants him to be fully available in March and April, when the team competes in crucial title-defining matches and the Champions League, he must be given some rest,” Silvestre added.
The former defender also noted the demands of the English schedule and Saka’s international commitments, stating, “By the time he reaches the Euro tournament, two-thirds of his energy will be depleted. It affects him both physically and mentally. He needs time to recharge and recover in order to perform at his best every week.”
