Pundit Chris Sutton has voiced his concerns regarding Arsenal’s chances as they prepare to face Brentford in the Premier League without their key forward, Bukayo Saka.
The BBC analyst has predicted a narrow 1-0 victory for the Gunners during their trip to West London on New Year’s Day.
Arsenal will be without the 23-year-old Saka, who recently underwent surgery to repair a hamstring tear sustained in a match against Crystal Palace earlier this month.
The England international, who has Nigerian roots, is expected to be sidelined for several months, raising concerns about the team’s title ambitions given his significant role in their success.
In his column for the BBC, Sutton highlighted the potential impact of Saka’s absence, suggesting it could lead to a decline in Arsenal’s performance.
“I am worried about Arsenal without Bukayo Saka, who has been ruled out for more than a couple of months.
“On top of that, Brentford away is obviously a very tough test when you consider how phenomenal the Bees have been at home this season.
“But I am backing the Gunners to run Liverpool close in the title race this season and, because of that, I am going with them to win this game.”