Bukayo Saka is edging closer to a return for Arsenal and might be included in the squad for their upcoming Premier League clash against Fulham on Tuesday.
The 23-year-old was seen in full training for the first time since sustaining a hamstring injury in December.
Saka suffered the setback during Arsenal’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace, where he was forced off in pain before undergoing surgery a few days later.
His absence has been keenly felt, with the Gunners struggling in key competitions. During his 19-game spell on the sidelines, Arsenal have slipped 12 points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool and have been eliminated from both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
Manager Mikel Arteta has had to cope with limited attacking options, often deploying Mikel Merino as a false nine in the absence of Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, who have both been ruled out for the remainder of the season.
Youngster Ethan Nwaneri has also been given opportunities on the right wing.
Despite the lengthy layoff, Saka has been steadily progressing in his rehabilitation and is expected to be fit for Arsenal’s Champions League quarter-final showdown against Real Madrid.
However, there is growing optimism that he could make an earlier return and feature in the matchday squad against Fulham.
The England international hinted at his comeback on Thursday, sharing a smiling photo from Arsenal’s London Colney training ground on Instagram with the caption, ‘Hello again’.
He had previously joined the squad in Dubai for a warm-weather training camp but was limited to light gym sessions.
So far this season, Saka has contributed nine goals and 13 assists across all competitions.
Following his surgery, he reassured fans of his determination to return stronger, posting on Instagram, “The majority see obstacles, but few see the opportunities. Recovery has begun and I’m coming back stronger! Thank you all for your messages.”
Arteta initially suggested Saka would be sidelined for two months, making his imminent return a timely boost as Arsenal set their sights on European glory.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are preparing to open contract negotiations with Saka to secure his long-term future.
His current deal, signed in 2022, runs until the summer of 2027, but the club is eager to extend it further and avoid any uncertainty surrounding their prized asset.
