Ex-BBC pundit Mark Lawrenson says opposition clubs have been targeting Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka.

The England international limped off during the 0-0 draw against Manchester City last weekend and didn’t feature in the win over Luton midweek. Speaking to Paddy Power about Saka’s fitness, Lawrenson said:

“Bukayo Saka came off against Manchester City and to be honest, anybody could have come off in that game because not too much happened. But it was a physical game. He’s a super player and I don’t have a problem with him limping off. If he had stayed on, you could argue that he would’ve been kicked to pieces anyway, he always gets lumped by everybody!”

The 22-year-old remains a doubt for today’s game against Brighton, with manager Mikel Arteta stating at his pre-match press conference that he would decide on whether the forward plays after the club’s final training session of the week.

Saka has had his fair share of knocks this season

The winger picked up a thigh injury back in October, keeping him sidelined for 18 days. He also had to withdraw from international duty last month before the City fixture due to a hamstring problem.

How many of these issues can be attributed to rough treatment from Arsenal’s opponents though, it is up for debate. All of the injuries have been muscle-related which may indicate he is playing too often.

Arteta is confident that the Arsenal star will “fly”

Despite concerns about burnout, Arteta believes that the winger will finish the season on a high note. Speaking on Friday about the player’s fitness, the Gunners boss said:

“I’m super positive. I think he’s going to fly and be so decisive.”

Saka has proven to be very resilient in the past so there’s a good chance that Arteta will end up being proven correct with his prediction.