Injuries helped Saka 'become a better person'
Bukayo Saka hopes the injuries he suffered over 2024-25 will make him a "better player" and a "better person" as he prepares for his final game of a long season on Tuesday.
The 23-year-old missed England's game against Andorra on Saturday but is expected feature for the first time under Thomas Tuchel when they face Senegal in a friendly on Tuesday.
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That was just the latest in a line of games he has been unable to play this campaign, including the longest spell of his career on the sidelines between December and April.
"It was very tough," Saka said. "I had to have an operation [and] I have never had one before, so it was quite scary initially. After it was done and successful, I dealt with it quite well.
"I was quite positive I would put all the work in that I needed to do. I spent some time at home with my family, more time than when I was playing, so that was nice to mentally refresh and be with them.
"Overall, I think it will help me come back as a better player and a better person and be able to give more.
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"The hardest part [about being out] was probably watching the games or watching how they were speaking about Arsenal on the TV. I was happy when I was off the crutches and I could go to the stadium, because it was a bit frustrating."
Despite his return for the remaining weeks of the season, Arsenal were already too far off the pace in the Premier League to challenge eventual champions Liverpool and ended another season without silverware after losing to Paris St-Germain in the Champions league semi-finals.
"I think I have grown a lot [while being out injured] - I think the team has grown a lot too," Saka added.
"I am wearing an England badge now, however, when we return next season, I am sure we will be in a better place and compete again."
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