Bukayo Saka fears he’ll be out injured for a while (Image: Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is fearful he faces a significant lay-off after sustaining a hamstring problem during the 5-1 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday night. Saka is set to undergo scans to determine the extent of the damage.

The same area had previously caused him trouble while playing for England earlier this season. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his concern about the injury post-match and is expected to address the media on Monday to preview their next match.

However, according to the Mirror, there are growing concerns as Saka was seen leaving Selhurst Park on crutches after being assisted off the pitch during the first half. Even a minor hamstring tear could result in a six-week absence, which would be a significant blow for Arsenal.

They face Ipswich on December 27, Brentford on New Year’s Day, a Carabao Cup semi-final in January, an FA Cup third-round tie with Manchester United, and their remaining two Champions League fixtures in this round.

Arsenal’s performance noticeably dipped when they were without captain Martin Odegaard, and Saka’s contribution of five goals and 10 assists in the Premier League this season has been vital.

Arteta also revealed that Raheem Sterling had suffered an injury in training and would undergo further checks, although the hope is that it’s minor and he won’t face a significant lay-off. If that’s the case, Sterling could potentially replace Saka if he’s facing a spell on the sidelines.

Following the Palace win, Arteta lamented his side’s injury issues. While he declined to provide an in-depth update on Saka’s fitness, he admitted he was concerned.

“He felt something in his hamstring, he couldn’t continue, and he’ll have to be assessed. So, we’re really worried about that one. He felt something in his hamstring, he couldn’t continue, and he’ll have to be assessed,” Arteta said.