Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta refuse to rule out using Bukayo Saka for central role in future matches after Sunday 4-0 FA Cup win over Wigan Athletic.
The England star originally start from the bench for the Emirates clash, as Myles Lewis-Skelly suppose link up with Eberechi Eze and Christian Norgaard for exciting new-look midfield trio.
But Arsenal suffer another defensive setback before kickoff, as Riccardo Calafiori pull out of starting XI with unspecified injury during warm-up.
The Italian withdrawal force Lewis-Skelly to return to him usual left-back position. With Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Max Dowman and Mikel Merino all absent from the squad, Saka step into Odegaard central role.
The 24-year-old impress against League One opposition, and e remain to be seen whether Odegaard go return for upcoming games against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Tottenham Hotspur.
Arteta Praise Saka Central Role Performance
Speaking after the match, Arteta openly admit say using Saka centrally na option wey he fit explore again.
According to the Arsenal boss: “That’s something that’s a possibility and I wanted to try it, and we might use it in the future.
“There are still so many games and competitions this season. He’s more central, closer to goal. It’s harder for opponents to track him constantly.
“He can rotate with wide players, and he’s very good at finding space. From there, he can really hurt you with the ball.”
With Saka moving inside, Noni Madueke start again on the right wing and reward the manager trust with the opening goal, assisted by beautiful through ball from Eze.
Eze later assist Gabriel Martinelli for the second goal before Jack Hunt own goal and Gabriel Jesus clever chip make am 4-0 before 30 minutes.
How Saka Perform in Midfield?
Arsenal supporters already know say Saka get quality to drift inside from the wing, but this time he operate mainly through the middle.
Even though he no score or assist, Saka still heavily influence the game.
He complete 21 out of 22 passes in the opposition half, complete two of three dribbles, draw three fouls and win six of seven ground duels.
He also unlucky to see two of him shots blocked.
Using Saka centrally still look like emergency tactical option for Arsenal. But with Madueke currently in top form, Arteta get genuine flexibility in attack.
The victory also see Arsenal reach FA Cup fifth round again, continuing their strong record in the competition since their 2019-20 triumph.