Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has heaped praise on Bukayo Saka following his winning goal against Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League.
The Gunners picked up a slender 1-0 victory over the Seagulls at the Amex Stadium on Wednesday night. Saka’s early deflected goal proved the difference.
The standing captain had a memorable 300th appearance for the Gunners. Shortly after the game, Magalhaes had some kind words for the Englishman.
The centre-back told TNT Sports: “I’m very happy for him, he’s a top guy. I think today was his 300th game, he’s still young, a lot of games with this shirt. We are very happy to have him with us.”
Saka scored with the Gunners’ first shot on target, and it proved decisive in the end.
Aside from his goal, the 24-year-old won four duels, made two interceptions and had a 100 percent tackle success rate. Saka managed only 30 touches in what was a tough outing for the Gunners.
Despite defending for much of the encounter, Arsenal secured a slender 1-0 win. This has increased their gap over Manchester City at the top of the table to seven points.
The Cityzens surprisingly shared the spoils against Nottingham Forest at the Etihad Stadium. They have an extra match to play, but their title destiny is no longer in their own hands.
Arsenal’s immediate focus will now shift to the FA Cup fifth-round tie away to Mansfield Town.
Arteta is poised to ring the changes for the Cup tie at Field Mill. We can fully expect the likes of Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Magalhaes to feature on the bench at best.
William Saliba missed the Brighton game with an injury sustained against Chelsea. It remains to be seen whether the Frenchman can recover in time to face Mansfield in Saturday’s early kick-off.