Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka has asked referees to give him more protection after he limped out of yesterday’s 1-0 win at Aston Villa having earlier scored the winning goal.
Saka’s 10th goal of the season strengthened Arsenal’s position in fourth place.(Getty Images)
Bukayo Saka was Arsenal’s matchwinner yet again, with his first-half goal the difference in the win at Aston Villa, a victory which moved the Gunners four points clear in the race for top four.
“My ankle is a bit bloody, but I’ll be going again in the next game,” Saka told BT Sport at full-time at Villa Park.
“It’s part of my game, so I’ll be doing it again next time.” He said.
The youngster was on the end of several hefty challenges throughout the game and was seen in conversation with match officials at the full-time whistle asking him for a little extra protection.
Bukayo Saka has warned referees that he needs more protection after coming in for rough treatment yet again during Arsenal ’s victory at Aston Villa. (Getty Images)
“ I wasn’t complaining to the ref, but I just wanted to let him know that that’s my game running at players with pace and sometimes I need a bit more protection when players are purposefully trying to kick me,” He said.
Arteta said fatigue was part of the reason he was replaced by Nicolas Pepe but had sympathy for Saka’s appeal as well.
‘We have to listen to the players. They are the reason we are all here,’ said Arteta.
‘I think referees try to do their best. Bukayo said what he felt was happening on the pitch. He has played a lot of minutes and you could tell. But he should be fine for England (on Saturday).’
The win ends a hectic week which has seen the Gunners play three times in six days and Arsenal now sit in fourth spot with a game in hand as well as their points advantage.