Mikel Arteta expresses concerns over “dangerous” tackle on Bukayo Saka

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted his heart skipped a beat after the “dangerous” red card tackle which left Bukayo Saka limping and eventually subbed off the pitch.

Ipswich full-back Leif Davis was given a straight red card by referee Chris Kavanagh for the late, stomping challenge after 32 minutes which left Arsenal fans fearing Saka was crocked. The England winger, who has only just returned from a three-month injury lay-off, was able to continue until 12 minutes after the interval.

Despite the harsh tackle on Saka, Arteta also revealed the damage is “not too serious” – with the England international hopeful of being cleared to face Paris Saint-Germain in next week’s Champions League semi-final first leg.

Arteta said: “He was sore but it’s nothing serious, so that’s positive.

“The referees made a decision that it is clear. I haven’t seen the slow-motion replay, I’ve just seen the normal pace image and, yeah, he cuts him from the back. I don’t think it’s intentional at all, but it’s dangerous because he cannot really react to anything and you cannot see him coming.”

Asked if he was worried when his key forward was writhing on the ground, the Gunners manager admitted: “I do (worry), especially with the numbers that we have right now, because normally it’s the moment when the foot is planted, your weight is there, and you cannot really react to it.”

Arsenal will be banking on Saka to put up another impressive performance when they face an inform PSG team in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal clash.