Jamie Redknapp criticised Mikel Arteta for starting Bukayo Saka against Port Vale despite the winger’s recent hamstring injury.

Former Premier League star Jamie Redknapp has criticised Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta for taking what he described as an unnecessary “risk” by starting Bukayo Saka in Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup third-round clash against Port Vale.

CBI News reports that Arteta surprised many by naming the England winger in his starting line-up for the tie at Vale Park, despite Saka’s recent recovery from a hamstring injury.

The 22-year-old had missed key games against Liverpool and Nottingham Forest, as well as Arsenal’s Champions League victory over Athletic Bilbao, before making his comeback in last weekend’s Premier League win over Manchester City.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Redknapp questioned the wisdom of risking one of Arsenal’s most important players in a domestic cup game against League One opposition.

“He obviously feels he does. The sports scientist will be telling him he needs minutes [but] it’s certainly a risk,” Redknapp said when asked if Saka really needed to start.

“When you’ve had a player who’s had a hamstring injury like he has, not that long ago, any time you play in a game that’s less important, it doesn’t make any sense to me.

“You’ve got a big game at the weekend against Newcastle. You’ve got a lot of players who could’ve played [against Port Vale].

“It’s not like you need him tonight. I think it’s a risk. This is the second time he’s done his hamstring, albeit a different one. It just feels like a game not taking a risk in.”

After Arsenal’s win, Arteta defended his decision, explaining that Saka “needed the minutes” to regain match sharpness before Saturday’s crucial Premier League clash with Newcastle United.

CBI News reports that the Spanish coach also revealed that the England international had personally pushed to play.

“It was the player himself who demanded to be involved,” Arteta told reporters, insisting that Saka was ready for the test.