Ex-Bournemouth Midfielder Gives Explanation Why Saka Was Brought On Late Vs Leeds United

Published: January 07, 2020

Arsenal are through to the fourth round of the Emirates FA Cup following a hard fought 1-0 victory against Championship high-flyers Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium on Monday night.

In a game of two halves, Marcelo Bielsa's side were excellent to watch in the opening 45 minutes but couldn't find a way past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

It was a different story in the second half as the Gunners manned up and broke the deadlock through Reiss Nelson in the 55th minute.

With five minutes of injury time to be played, manager Mikel Arteta brought on Bukayo Saka as replacement for the lively Nicolas Pepe.

Speaking during commentary of the game for the World Feed (Super Sport), former Bournemouth midfielder Matt Holland opined that the home team wanted to employ time-wasting tactics, hence the decision to bring on the Nigerian winger in place of the Ivorian.

"Absolutely, he (Saka) played in a number of different positions and this is just a case of wasting a bit of time at this stage of the game".

Arsenal's reward for beating Leeds United is a trip to Bournemouth in the next round which will take place between Friday 24th and Monday 27th January.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : arsenal.com