There are few players more tenacious than Bukayo Saka and it would have taken a small army to keep him out of Wednesday's north London derby, despite his ongoing rehabilitation.
The Arsenal star was pictured watching his team-mates train while stabilizing himself on crutches ahead of the clash against Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium.
The normally ever-present Saka underwent hamstring surgery in December and will be sidelined until March.
He exchanged a hug with a staff member and was joined by his star treatment table partner, Ethan Nwaneri.
Saka has only missed nine Premier League games in the last four seasons, but ruptured his hamstring in the 5-1 thrashing of Crystal Palace in December.
He lasted just 25 minutes at Selhurst Park before stopping and falling to the ground and has not played since.
It was a huge blow for Mikel Arteta's side, losing the talisman who had scored nine goals and provided 13 assists in all competitions this season.
But the winger had an upbeat message for fans after his setback, sharing a photo of him giving a thumbs up in his hospital bed and writing: “Most see the obstacles but few see the opportunities.” Recovery has begun and I am coming back stronger!
'Thank you all for your messages.'
In Saka's absence, 17-year-old winger Ethan Nwaneri was given the chance to shine and his reputation was growing rapidly until his injury.
Nwaneri, who had already scored three goals in the Carabao Cup this season, made his Premier League debut against Brentford in December, more than two years after making his first appearance off the bench and becoming the youngest player in the club's history. the Gunners.
His performance against Brentford saw him rewarded with another start against Brighton, and he scored after 16 minutes against them, but had to leave at half-time due to a muscle problem.
More to follow.
