Bukayo Saka admits his ankle is 'a bit bloody' after Arsenal win at Villa

Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has revealed that his ankle was left “a bit bloody” in wake of today’s win at Aston Villa.

The 20-year-old got the winner for the Gunners in the only Premier League game taking place on Saturday.

Saka scored on the half-hour mark with a low drive from the edge of the area.

Villa had failed to properly clear Cedric Soares’ cross into the box.

Arsenal dominated proceedings against an opponent that only mustered one shot on target all game.

But once again, Saka found himself on the receiving end of overly forceful tackles.

In one instance, defender Tyrone Mings slid in and initially won the ball.

However, he followed through to the back of Saka’s ankle unnecessarily.

The Arsenal star was visibly hurt by the action and struggled to shrug it off.

Indeed, Mikel Arteta opted to take Saka off in the 70th minute in wake of the Villa players going for him repeatedly.

“I need a bit more protection”

Saka was seen speaking to referee Andy Madley regarding the lack of protection afforded to him.

After the game, the Gunners ace told BT Sport: “I wasn’t complaining, but I wanted to let him know that is my game.

“I’m going to run at players; sometimes I need a bit more protection when the opposition is trying to kick me.”

Saka also spoke to BBC Sport, where he confirmed he was left bleeding during the match.

“My ankle is a bit bloody, but I’ll be going again in the next game,” he said.

“It’s part of my game, so I’ll be doing it again next time.”

Arsenal fans will surely be angered to hear that one of their players has been left bleeding after a game.

Particularly when everyone can see the player in question needs more protection from referees.