Arsenal starboy Saka 'getting closer' to return: Arteta

The Englishman has been sidelined since before Christmas after tearing his right hamstring in Arsenal’s 5-1 thrashing of Crystal Palace. He has since undergone surgery, missing 18 games for the Gunners, who have been struggling in his absence.

But Mikel Arteta is hopeful that Bukayo Saka will be available for selection when his north London side face 15-time Champions League winners Real Madrid in the quarter-finals next month. 

“Bukayo will hopefully do more with the ball at his feet than he has, passing, shooting and running,” Arteta said. "He's getting closer, he's stepping up and making very good progress. Let's see when we start to throw him in with the team, how he reacts and how fit he can get quickly."

Riccardo Calafiori has also backed his teammate to make a difference when he returns, underlining his importance to the team. "Everyone will be very happy when he is back," said the Italy international.

"He is a top player and he will definitely make a difference. You can see that he makes a difference on the pitch. He is an important player for us. He will do everything to get back," he added.