Saka’s goal was sparked by Martinelli’s positivity. The Brazil international dribbled forward from midfield before delicately flicking Merino’s cross into Saka’s path to head in at the back post, and it was not the first time he caused issues for the Fulham backline.

Bukayo Saka has marked his first appearance in more than three months by scoring as a substitute in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Fulham that trimmed the gap to Premier League leader Liverpool to nine points.