Arsenal lose Bukayo Saka in festive hammerblow as star limps off at Crystal Palace

Bukayo Saka went off after 25 minutes. (Image: Getty)

Bukayo Saka has been taken off injured in the first half of Arsenal's game at Crystal Palace. Just before the 25-minute mark, the forward played a short pass before immediately holding the back of his right leg.

Saka wasted no time in signalling to the bench for help, and was treated for a number of minutes before being helped to his feet.

But while the 23-year-old was able to limp off without the use of a stretcher, he looked anything but comfortable as he was replaced by Leandro Trossard.

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Initially, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher feared the England star was holding his hamstring. However, his subsequent treatment suggested a knee problem, and one which could represent a hammer blow for his side.

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Saka, 23, is considered critical to his side's title chances. Following the game at Selhurst Park, Mikel Arteta's side host Ipswich on December 27, before a trip to Brentford on New Year's Day.

That's followed by a trip to Brighton three days later, before a short eight-day break ahead of the FA Cup clash with Manchester United. And given the nature in which he reacted, it appears inconceivable that Saka will be playing for the Gunners again before 2025.

Saka was helped down the tunnel at Selhurst Park. (Image: Getty) SUBSCRIBE Invalid email

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Arteta showed little emotion as his key man went down the tunnel, and was at least able to reflect on a positive first 45 minutes from his side. Gabriel Jesus struck inside the six minutes, before Ismaila Sarr levelled matters.

But the Brazilian immediately had his side back ahead with his second goal, with Saka having twice been involved in the build-up. Kai Havertz made it 3-1 shortly before half-time.

Saka's workload for club and country has long been the subject of debate. He's already played 23 times for Arsenal in all competitions this season, scoring nine times.

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On Wednesday, he was seemingly rested for a League Cup tie - again against Palace. However, Arteta opted to put him on after the interval as his side came from behind to win 3-2.

A win for Arsenal tonight will take them within three points of leaders Liverpool. However, the Reds will also have two games in hand, starting with Tottenham on Sunday.