Arsenal have been given a boost after early assessments suggested the injuries suffered by Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard in the 5-0 win over Leeds are not as serious as first feared, The Sporting News understands.
Mikel Arteta's side cruised past Daniel Farke's team at Emirates Stadium to maintain their perfect start to the Premier League season, but the comprehensive victory was overshadowed by fitness concerns over two of the Gunners' most influential players.
Odegaard was forced off midway through the first half with a shoulder problem, while Saka hobbled out of the contest early in the second period holding his left hamstring.
The England international had previously undergone surgery on his right hamstring last term, which kept him out for three months, sparking fresh anxiety among supporters when he pulled up.
Arteta admitted afterwards that both players will undergo scans, but offered some reassurance by confirming Saka's issue was with the opposite leg and hinting that neither injury is thought to be long term.
"Martin felt his shoulder when he landed and we’ll need to scan him,” the Arsenal boss explained.
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"Bukayo felt something when he was running with the ball and wrestling with a defender. It’s the other hamstring, not the one from his previous injury."
Arteta had earlier told beIN SPORTS that Saka's immediate reaction had made the situation look "significant", but the player’s ability to walk off unaided and the fact that the problem is on the other side has left hope of a swift recovery.
However, Sporting News has learnt that both injuries are not as serious as first feared.
New signing Viktor Gyokeres netted twice in the match against Leeds, Jurrien Timber added a brace, while 15-year-old Max Dowman impressed on his senior debut for the club.
Arteta's side now turn their attention to next weekend's clash against defending champions Liverpool at Anfield, where Arteta will be desperate to have at least one of his key men available.
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