Former Tottenham player and current Talk Sport analyst Jamie O’Hara suggests that Arsenal should prioritize the protection of Bukayo Saka by substituting him in matches where they have a comfortable lead.
Saka has been a standout performer for Arsenal, contributing significantly to the team’s resurgence over the past two seasons.
His consistent displays have established him as a crucial asset for the Gunners, and manager Mikel Arteta often opts to keep him on the pitch for extended periods to maximize his influence on the game.
While this strategy has yielded positive results, with Saka scoring twice in each of his recent two outings, O’Hara advocates for a cautious approach.
He believes that in matches where Arsenal has a clear lead, the club should consider substituting Saka early to mitigate the risk of potential injuries.
During a segment on Talk Sports, O’Hara expressed his viewpoint:
“You want to keep him fit; you have a lot of games coming up; you are competing for the title.
Today, the game was over, he put in another outstanding effort; pull him off, and protect him.”
The sentiment reflects a concern for Saka’s well-being, emphasizing the importance of preserving his fitness, especially given the team’s title ambitions and a packed schedule.
O’Hara’s argument revolves around the idea that in matches where victory is secure, Arsenal should exercise caution and withdraw Saka to prevent any unnecessary risks, such as late challenges that could result in long-term injuries.
This perspective aligns with the notion that Saka, being a pivotal player for Arsenal, is too valuable to risk losing to injury.
Managing his playing time strategically, particularly in games where the outcome is all but assured, becomes crucial in ensuring his sustained availability for the team’s upcoming challenges.
