Saka could start tonight, play 60 minutes, and then come off the bench on Saturday. Or have a second-half run out against Fulham before starting against Everton three days before the quarter-final first leg. He could also sit out tonight’s game entirely, though that seems the least plausible option given Arteta’s pre-match comments.

Bukayo Saka is back ready and raring to go as Arsenal aim for UEFA Champions League glory and to put pressure on Liverpool in the Premier League title race. Saka, 23, suffered a hamstring injury in December that required surgery and has been missing for three months at a pivotal time of the season.