Arsenal are keeping pace with their Premier League title rivals but Mikel Arteta is facing a number of headaches heading into the final eight games of the season.

Arsenal stayed in contention with title rivals Liverpool and Manchester City following a comfortable victory over Luton on Wednesday.

However, with just eight games left in the season, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faced a setback as one of his key players, Bukayo Saka, sustained an injury. Saka, who has played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s title pursuit, was absent from the win against Luton after being forced off early in the draw with City on Sunday, raising concerns about his fitness. Arteta has sought to alleviate worries regarding Saka’s injury.

Meanwhile, Luton boss Rob Edwards shared insights on what makes Arsenal a formidable opponent.

In another development, Thomas Partey has signaled his intentions to extend his stay at the Emirates Stadium by expressing his desire to remain with the club. This hints at potential contract negotiations in the pipeline. Mirror Football brings you the latest updates on Arsenal.

Saka injury update

Mikel Arteta has downplayed worries about Bukayo Saka’s fitness following the winger’s absence in the victory over Luton. The Gunners manager remains optimistic about having Saka back in contention for the upcoming weekend’s match against Brighton.

“He was close but again he felt something in a very similar area against City and it was a very short turnaround. Hopefully he’ll be able to train again and we can have him for the weekend,” Arteta said.

“He hasn’t been able to do everything that we needed to give him the chance to start the game. Touch wood we can maintain them. As well that we use them and they are in the right physical and mental state to help the team.”

Edwards opens up on Arsenal test

Luton manager Rob Edwards has shed light on the challenge of facing Arsenal, following his team’s defeat on Wednesday night. Edwards highlighted Arsenal’s adaptability as their key strength.

“They don’t offer many opportunities to their opponents. We witnessed them against… a top-tier team over the weekend, and they restricted City’s chances. They don’t concede much, and their attacking strategy is clear, but also difficult to counter,” he remarked.

“They consistently have players in advantageous positions and can apply intense pressure. They may be the only team among the three contenders currently competing that can adjust to any style of play.”

Partey drops hint on future

Thomas Partey has expressed his desire to remain at Arsenal, notwithstanding his challenges in securing regular playing time this season. Although the midfielder’s contract expires at the end of the following season, he is keen on prolonging his tenure in North London.

“My head is always here,” he said. “This is where I choose to play, I’m really happy every time I’m on the field. I know a lot of speculation has been going on, but for me, I’m really happy to be here and to continue playing for this club.

“With my contract, I still have to the end of the season, I think. I have to do my best and try to perform at the highest level and I think the most important is to be available every time.”