‘I’m sure’: Mikel Arteta now believes that referees are looking at how much 21-year-old Arsenal man is fouled

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been preparing for his side’s final Europa League group game.

The Gunners host FC Zurich today knowing a win will guarantee they top their group.

Arteta was speaking to the press, via the club’s official website, ahead of their European tie.

He addressed a wide range of topics, including the fitness of some of his first-team players.

Arsenal fans will be delighted to hear that Bukayo Saka is fit enough to potentially feature tonight.

Saka was seen limping off in the first-half of Arsenal’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest.

The 21-year-old was on the receiving end of a strong challenge from Renan Lodi in the opening minutes.

Despite setting up Gabriel Martinelli’s opener, Saka couldn’t shake off the knock and was forced off.

Arteta has said that referees will now look at challenges on Saka and his other forwards more.

Referees will look at tackles on Saka – Arteta

Arsenal’s manager was asked about whether Saka gets enough protection from referees.

“I’m sure that the referees have looked at all the incidents and the amount of fouls that our front players are getting and it’s their job to manage that situation in the best possible way,” Arteta replied.

Saka has already been fouled 17 times in the Premier League this season, but he’s not Arsenal most fouled player.

Gabriel Jesus has suffered 32 fouls already in this campaign, with only Wilfried Zaha being felled more.

Arteta lack of rotation means he’ll be praying none of his first team pick up serious injuries.

However, he’s not going to be the only manager hoping that referees to do more to look at fouls on their attackers, such as Saka.

It’s a comment that may even end up winding up opposition defenders who could target Arsenal’s forwards.

Saka was absolutely furious to go off at the weekend, but will be very glad his injury isn’t too serious.

Plenty of Arsenal fans will be hoping Saka is rested today.

The Gunners need him in the best shape possible for their trip to Chelsea on Sunday.