Arsenal have received an "absolutely huge" fitness boost ahead of their Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid, with Wayne Rooney praising Bukayo Saka's return to action. The Gunners are chasing a potential double after returning to the top of the Premier League, and their focus now shifts to the two-legged tie against Diego Simeone's side, starting with Wednesday's first leg.
Rooney Dubs Saka Return 'Absolutely Huge'
Wayne Rooney has labelled Bukayo Saka's return to fitness as "absolutely huge" at this critical stage of the season. After nearly a month on the sidelines, the England winger made a cameo appearance off the bench to help secure a 1-0 victory over Newcastle United. Saka, 24, signed a lucrative new five-year deal at the Emirates earlier this year despite not enjoying his most prolific season. Rooney was effusive in his praise for the attacker and his potential impact during the run-in.
"Bukayo Saka has been great for Arsenal over the last few years," said the Manchester United legend on The Wayne Rooney Show. "Maybe this season he hasn't hit the heights, but he's such an important player. So to get him back at this time of the season is going to be massive, it's going to be really important. He's clearly one of the leaders in there, so to have him back is huge."
The timing of Saka's comeback could hardly be better given the potential rewards if Arsenal can perfect their form in the coming weeks. Rooney highlighted the importance of having such a talismanic figure whom teammates can rely on. "An in-form Bukayo Saka is one of the best players in the Premier League, there's no doubt about that," he continued. "It will help the other players as well; he has a really good connection with Jurrien Timber and the midfield players. Having someone you know you can rely on out there is really important, and all those Arsenal players know they can rely on Saka and know what he brings to the team. It's huge for Arsenal, absolutely huge."
Nwaneri Criticised by Marseille Boss Beye
In the latest episode of Ethan Nwaneri's disappointing loan spell at Marseille, the teenager has now been targeted for criticism by his own manager. The 19-year-old was an unused substitute as Les Olympiens conceded late to draw 1-1 at home to Nice on Sunday. Nwaneri was heavily utilised by Roberto De Zerbi after the Italian first brought him in on loan in January. However, Habib Beye has shown nowhere near the same preference for the Englishman since he replaced De Zerbi at the helm.
The former Newcastle defender took things a step further when quizzed about Nwaneri's absence. Sunday marked the second time in three league games the teen has failed to make it off the bench, and Beye's remarks do not suggest a change will come anytime soon. Speaking to L1+ about Nwaneri's no-show after the disappointing result, Beye said: "He's a quality player, but he has to give us way more in his day-to-day commitment. Other players gave way more."
The former Senegal defender clearly does not see in Nwaneri the qualities that De Zerbi admired during their time together. It sets the stage for an underwhelming end to the campaign, even though Marseille have continued to struggle after the managerial change. The club now sits sixth in Ligue 1 and has likely blown its chances of qualifying for next season's Champions League. With only three games left in Marseille's season, Beye's comments certainly do not suggest Nwaneri's situation is liable to improve before parting ways at the end of this term.
