Bukayo Saka returns for Arsenal, scores in win over Fulham

Bukayo Saka made a sensational return for Arsenal on Tuesday, scoring in a 2-1 win over Fulham after a three-month spell on the sidelines. Saka, 23, had not played for Arsenal since injured his hamstring at Crystal Palace just before Christmas, forcing the England star to undergo surgery and a rehabilitation regimen. But he came off the bench in the 66th minute to a boisterous welcome from the Emirates crowd, and he scored Arsenal's second goal of the night with a cushioned header at the back post following a nice flick on from Gabriel Martinelli, ESPN reported. The second-place Gunners dominated Fulham in the first half, taking the lead in the 37th minute with a shot from Mikel Merino. Fulham reduced their deficit in second-half stoppage time, but Arsenal held on to reduce Liverpool's lead to nine points at the top of the table. Liverpool can regain their 12-point lead when they face Everton in the Merseyside derby on Wednesday. Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta praised Saka's comeback in the prematch press conference and named him on the substitutes' bench for the team's 30th Premier League match of the season against Fulham, according to ESPN. Saka was on the bench with Raheem Sterling and Leandro Trossard, while Ethan Nwaneri and Martinelli started as wingers. Fulham remain in ninth place after the setback, but they may be overhauled by both Aston Villa and Bournemouth if either club wins on Wednesday.