Bukayo Saka marked his return from injury with a crucial goal as Arsenal secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Fulham at the Emirates Stadium.
Saka, who had been sidelined since December with a hamstring injury, made an immediate impact after coming off the bench, heading home Arsenal’s second goal in the 73rd minute. Gabriel Martinelli flicked Mikel Merino’s cross into Saka’s path, allowing the winger to nod in from close range.
Earlier, Arsenal had taken the lead through Merino in the 37th minute, as the Spaniard continued to impress in a makeshift centre-forward role. However, the Gunners were dealt an early setback when defender Gabriel Magalhães was forced off with an injury.
Despite Saka’s goal seemingly putting Arsenal in control, Fulham nearly responded when Rodrigo Muniz headed wide following good work from former Arsenal midfielder Alex Iwobi. Muniz did eventually pull one back in the 94th minute, but it proved too late to deny Arsenal all three points.
The victory sees Arsenal move within nine points of Premier League leaders Liverpool, keeping their title hopes alive. Fulham, meanwhile, remain eighth, four points adrift of the top four, with European qualification still in sight.
With injuries to key attacking players, including Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, Merino’s contributions have been vital. His sixth league goal of the season marks his best-ever campaign, but Saka’s timely return could provide the boost Arsenal need in the crucial months ahead.
