Handbrake Off: The Athletic FC's Arsenal show Can Saka get back to his best?
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Apr 1, 2026 They debate why Bukayo Saka has been less influential this season and which factors have dented his numbers. The panel unpack 11 players withdrawing from international duty and the surrounding media noise. They preview the FA Cup trip to Southampton, discuss Martin Ødegaard’s looming return and squad rotation. A fan message from Hong Kong and a tribute to David Rocastle add personal moments.
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International Withdrawals Seen As Sensible Load Management
- Widespread withdrawals from international duty were largely understood as sensible rest decisions rather than deception.
- Ian Stone and Adrian Clarke felt managers and media treated most of these as genuine load-management for World Cup preparation.
Booing Ben White Ignored Important Context
- Booing of players like Ben White is unhelpful and often misreported; context includes a fallout with staff rather than refusal to play.
- Adrian warns media allowed a misleading narrative that harmed White's reputation.
Noise About Arsenal Pullouts Masks Player Fatigue
- The media narrative around Arsenal pulling players out is inflated; underlying issue is squad-wide fatigue and niggles.
- Adrian says Arsenal's situation is that many players simply aren't right, rather than deliberate avoidance.