After yet another brilliant season from the Arsenal youngster, Bukayo Saka was handed a well-deserved call-up to the national team for the March international break. However, the winger's participation in England's upcoming games is under heavy doubt.
The 20-year-old, who has recently been nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month award, trained on Tuesday at the famous St. George's Park. However, since then, illness has prevented the Emirates Stadium sensation from practicing with his countrymen, with the attacker being isolated in his room.
Fortunately, Saka does not appear to have caught COVID-19. According to the Evening Standard, the Three Lions ace has tested negative for the coronavirus. However, further tests will be carried out, and should no positive COVID-19 result pop up, he could play a part in Tuesday's friendly against Ivory Coast.
However, Bukayo could also withdraw from international duty altogether, which would allow him to return to north London and focus on recovering. This would be a boost for Arsenal as the Gunners are gearing up for a crucial trip to Crystal Palace on April 4 once the Premier League resumes.
Mikel Arteta's men are in the midst of a heated top-four race, with Saka and Co. battling it out with north London rivals Tottenham and Manchester United for a spot in next season's UEFA Champions League. The Hale End graduate has played a key role in the club's unexpected push for a top-four finish, meaning Arteta would love to see his star man resting.
As for England, the European giants have already secured qualification for the FIFA World Cup, with the Three Lions playing two friendly games in preparation for Qatar 2022. Southgate's men will first take on Switzerland this weekend before facing African giants Ivory Coast next week.
