Mikel Arteta on how Bukayo Saka is treated by referees

Mikel Arteta lauds Saka for coping with the rough treatment by opponents.

The 21-year-old is expected to sign a new long-term deal with the Gunners.

He has been targeted by opponents in recent weeks and there are discussions about whether the winger needs to be protected by referees.

After the win against Aston Villa, Mikel Arteta admitted that opposition are set out to stop the England international.

But the Spaniard believes the referees are trying their best to protect the players.

He said: “I’m sure every referee tries to protect the game and the individuals in the best possible way.

“Obviously there is a lot of attention now on Bukayo and we need to keep that in mind, as well as a team with the plans that we put together, understanding what the opponents are doing. For sure, the referee has the responsibility and they have to do their jobs.

“We cannot control what the opponent is going to do or the referee’s decision in a split second, it’s something we cannot control. We have to focus on how we can help him become a better player and be more efficient.”

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