Bukayo Saka showed Arsenal fans exactly what they’ve been missing as he scored just moments into his return.
The winger took just seven minutes to score for the Gunners in their 2-1 triumph over Fulham in the Premier League.
Named on the bench for the clash at the Emirates Stadium, Saka was introduced midway through the second half to a rousing reception as he replaced Ethan Nwaneri.
The 23-year-old immediately looked to threaten and found the net as he headed home from close range following good work from Mikel Merino and Gabriel Martinelli.
It was Saka’s 68th goal for Arsenal in all competitions was his first as a substitute.
He has now been involved in 23 goals in all competitions this season (10 goals, 13 assists).
Saka had been sidelined for 100 days – more than three months and missed 19 games in the process but has already reminded Arsenal fans of just how important he is to this team.
“The reception speaks for itself,” Declan Rice said on Saka after the game. That’s why he’s one of the best wingers in the world because he attacks the box and sniffs the goal.
“You take them, he’s in the right position at the right time and topped off a great night for him and for us.
“He gives us an outlet. All of our front players are so different and rotate so well. Martinelli unbelievable tonight, real outlet for us and done well for Bukayo’s goal. With Bukayo back it’s a real boost.”
The England star’s goal was the second goal of the night, following Merino’s opener in the first half.
Arsenal continued their dominance and secured the three points with Mikel Merino’s deflected shot opening the scoring in the first half. Rodrigo Muniz scored a consolation goal in stoppage-time.
And the result has extended a rather remarkable piece of history.
The Gunners have never lost a home game against Fulham – a record that now stretches to 32 fixtures against the west London side.
In that time, Arsenal have now won 25 times and drawn on seven occasions since their first-ever meeting on Arsenal turf in 1904 – 121 years ago.
That run is an all-time record for an unbeaten home run against an opponent in English Football League history.
Unfortunately for Arsenak it wasn’t a night that went entirely their way.
That’s because Gabriel Magalhaes was forced off with an injury during the first half.
Running back to get in position, the Brazilian pulled up with a hamstring injury, leading to him being withdrawn and replaced by Jurrien Timber.
While it’s unclear how severe the injury is, it’s possible that it could bring his campaign to a premature end despite the Gunners’ win.
Victory for Arsenal sees them stay second in the Premier League with 61 points to their name.
They’re now nine points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, who face Everton on Wednesday night.
