Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League table on Saturday with a commanding 5-0 victory over newly promoted Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium, but the win came at a cost as Bukayo Saka and captain Martin Odegaard both limped off injured.
Jurrien Timber opened the scoring in the 34th minute before Bukayo Saka doubled the lead in first-half stoppage time. Viktor Gyökeres struck shortly after the restart and Timber grabbed his second of the day on 56 minutes to put the result beyond doubt. Gyökeres then completed the rout from the penalty spot in added time.
The result was overshadowed by injuries to Arsenal’s key men. Saka, who had been lively and got on the scoresheet, was forced off before the hour mark while Odegaard was also withdrawn after receiving treatment. Their conditions will be a concern for manager Mikel Arteta as the Gunners prepare for a busy run of fixtures.
There was, however, a memorable moment for Arsenal’s teenage midfielder Max Dowman, who at just 15 years old became the second-youngest player in Premier League history when he came off the bench. The youngster even won the penalty that Gyökeres converted for his second goal.
Earlier in the day, Arsenal confirmed the £60 million signing of England international Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace, adding further depth to Arteta’s squad.
