Arteta eager to include 'motivated' Bukayo Saka in Arsenal run-in

Mikel Arteta was happy to see Bukayo Saka make his return to the pitch on Saturday for Arsenal, and he hopes to have the England international for the remainder of the season as the Gunners pursue titles in the Premier League and Champions League.

Saka had missed the five Arsenal matches prior to their 1-0 victory over Newcastle United on Saturday, when the 24-year-old made a late cameo at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal reclaimed first place in the Premier League. 

On for just the closing moments after replacing Noni Madueke in the 82nd minute, Saka's presence was welcomed by his manager amid a heated league title race.

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"Great," Arteta told the media on Saturday when asked about Saka's influence against the Magpies. "I think he had a very good impact as well in the minutes that he's played.

"He's back, I think he looks sharp, he looks good, he looks fresh. You certainly notice something different in the team and in the stadium as well when he comes in, so we certainly need that."

While many Arsenal fans will hope to see much more of Saka with several key matches to play in the weeks ahead, including a first-leg Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, Arteta preached patience when it comes to the long-serving attacker. 

"Let's see how he reacts [Sunday], how he absorbs the load," the manager said. "He's so keen, he's so motivated, it’s the most beautiful part of the season, and he's with us."

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