Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is struggling with a sore Achilles despite his hat-trick heroics for England on Monday.
The 21-year-old enjoyed one of the finest nights of his soaring career to date at Old Trafford, scoring a treble of brilliant goals as his first senior hat-trick helped Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions to continue their 100 per cent start to Euro 2024 qualifying with a 7-0 demolition of North Macedonia.
Such a memorable evening capped a tremendous season for Saka, who has now scored seven times in his last seven England appearances - including three at the World Cup - in addition to his 15 goals and 11 assists that helped to spearhead Arsenal’s surprise Premier League title charge under Mikel Arteta.
Saka also signed a lucrative new four-year Arsenal contract last month worth up to £300,000 a week that makes him the highest-paid player at the club.
But despite his excellent form the Gunners favourite is also feeling the strain of what has been a marathon season for club and country, with Southgate confirming after the rout of North Macedonia that Saka has been carrying an Achilles problem for several weeks that needs managing.
“He’s had it for a few weeks,” the England boss told reporters at Old Trafford.
“It is an injury that just needs managing... when you’ve had one of the best nights of your life, it’s a reminder that it’s worth going through these things.”
Arsenal had already received one injury blow on Monday, with the news that Fabio Vieira would miss the European Under-21 Championship with Portugal, which starts on Wednesday, due to an unexplained “medical issue”.
“I tried everything to be ready to play for my country,” Vieira said.
“I love to play for Portugal, but unfortunately it was not possible. I didn’t feel on top to play and help the team and the medical staff agreed.
“The most important thing is my health and this precaution was taken to reduce any risks. Now is the time to rest and be 100 per cent ready for pre-season, and next season.”
Arsenal expect Vieira to return in time for pre-season training next month, with his place in the Portugal squad taken by Benfica winger Diego Moreira.
