Following a dangerous tackle by Leif Davis during Arsenal’s match against Ipswich, BUKAYO SAKA had his ankle bandaged with ice.
Only thirty-two minutes into the Premier League match, Saka was awarded a straight red after the Tractor Boys’ full-back gave him a vicious challenge.
As Saka attempted to win the ball from the Gunners winger, Davis ran his studs down the back of his heel.
With the challenge there in front of him, referee Chris Kavanagh was forced to reach for his red card.
After a quick review of the ruling, VAR verified that Kavanagh was correct to send Davis for an early shower.
“VAR checked and confirmed the referee’s call of red card to Davis for serious foul play – with the challenge deemed to be endangering the safety of an opponent,” said a statement on the Premier League Match Centre X account.
As he left the field, Davis apologized to Saka, acknowledging the seriousness of his behavior.
As Saka writhed in agony on the ground after the challenge, Arsenal supporters held their breath, fearing that he might get an injury that would prevent him from playing in Arsenal’s next Champions League semi-final.
He was substituted in the 57th minute after playing the remainder of the half.
Then, Arsenal medical staff applied ice to his ankle.
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Piers Morgan raged: “Ipswich supporters are yelling at the victim, not their thug, after Davis’ disgusting tackle that might have ruined Saka’s season. Stupid clowns.
“God, I hope Saka isn’t injured,” someone posted on social media.
Another person added: “Saka is still down with injuries! Please, God! “I can’t!”
To the relief of other supporters, the 23-year-old was fortunately able to continue on the field following treatment.
One commented: “Saka is quite fortunate that he hasn’t suffered any severe injuries there.
“No chance of grabbing the ball when standing footed and behind. A terrible tackle. The only goal was to harm Saka. A player who simply wanted to leave the field.”
Saka only made his comeback to play last month after missing 19 games so far this season due to a hamstring ailment.
Later this month, the Gunners will host Paris Saint-Germain at the Emirates Stadium for the opening leg of their Champions League semi-final, and they will need every player to perform at their best.
Right now, defeating Ipswich is the main priority.
The removal of Davis made things much easier for Mikel Arteta’s team.
At the time of the challenge, however, the North Londoners were already leading 2-0.
Arsenal led 2-0 at the break thanks to goals from Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli.