Bukayo Saka has expressed his regret to Kostas Tsimikas after a collision between the two resulted in the Liverpool left-back suffering a broken collarbone.
The incident took place during Liverpool and Arsenal’s closely contested draw at Anfield. Saka forcefully took possession from Tsimikas on the touchline, causing the full-back to fall awkwardly and collide with Jurgen Klopp as he tumbled off the pitch.
Tsimikas was forced to leave the field in the 35th minute, and Jurgen Klopp confirmed after the game that the Greek international had sustained a broken collarbone.
Addressing the media post-match, Saka was eager to convey his apologies to Tsimikas following the unfortunate incident. “I heard he has gone to hospital so obviously I want to apologise to him. I didn’t mean it of course,” said Saka. “For me, it was a 50/50 and I have gone shoulder to shoulder with him. I didn’t see it, but he must have taken a bad fall, I didn’t see him go into Jurgen Klopp either. I was focused on running forward because I didn’t think it was a foul. That’s my take on it.”
The 1-1 draw meant that Arsenal heads into Christmas as the Premier League leaders for a second consecutive season, sitting one point clear of both Liverpool and Aston Villa after Gameweek 18.
Reflecting on the result, Saka admitted he was “frustrated” that Arsenal didn’t emerge victorious in the top-of-the-table clash at Anfield. “I think we’re a bit frustrated, I am frustrated, but I guess it can be good that you are frustrated when you come to Anfield and haven’t won. Credit to Liverpool, they played well and we played well as well. It could have gone either way in the end – we’re proud.”
The draw saw both teams spurn chances to clinch all three points. Liverpool dominated possession and created more goal-scoring opportunities, while Arsenal were resolute and dangerous on the break.
This draw means that Arsenal continues to be a genuine force in the Premier League this season, solidifying their status as genuine title contenders. Despite the draw, Arsenal has every reason to be proud of their performance and position in the league table.
Moving forward, both teams will be looking to capitalize on this hard-fought draw and build on their performances as they head into the second half of the season. The injury to Tsimikas will be a concern for Liverpool, but they will be buoyed by their form and the performance of their team overall.
As for Arsenal, they will be pleased with the result and their position in the league but will be keen to build on this and ensure that they continue to challenge for the title. The season promises to be an exciting one as these two teams, alongside a handful of others, battle it out for the Premier League crown.
