Everton and David Moyes have relatively poor records at the Emirates Stadium, and Arsenal have enjoyed a very solid start to the new season so far, winning six of their seven matches.

But Arsenal did have Champions League involvement last night, which might be something that helps Everton. And it seems they did not come through the game completely unscathed, with Bukayo Saka being forced off in the first-half with an injury.

Speaking after the game, Mikel Arteta admitted that the injury ‘does not look good at all’, casting major doubt on his potential to play against Everton.

And his likely absence might just be something that lights a fire beneath Tyrique George.

Tyrique George can steal headlines in Bukayo Saka’s absence

The past few weeks have been somewhat frustrating for George, who has found himself back on the bench at Everton after starting the first few games for the Toffees.

George hasn’t started since the 0-0 draw with Tottenham Hotspur, with Jack Grealish being preferred on the left and Brennan Johnson mostly playing from the right.

Moyes then made a telling move against Chelsea, starting Merlin Rohl – a natural centre midfielder – wide on the right. George was introduced as a substitute in the 55th minute.

The pair are not dissimilar in terms of play style, although George is a little more direct and explosive. During his time at Chelsea, a lot of their fans felt he could be the Cobham version of Saka, who came through at Hale End for Arsenal.

The pair have previously also been compared for their likeness, with George playfully dubbed ‘Evil Saka’ by his former teammate Tosin Adarabioyo (via Goal). That has probably contributed to more eyes being on George, so he would like to hope he can deliver in a big way on Saturday – but will David Moyes even select him?

George’s dynamism would be helpful vs Arsenal

Everton put in a pedestrian performance against Chelsea, so Moyes ought to try and think about making some changes against Arsenal. But of course, this is a very tough game and Everton don’t typically do well at the Emirates, so it’s possible we might see a safe line-up.

But George has been really vibrant so far this season. As per Fotmob data, he ranks third in the Everton squad for shots per 90 (2.4), third for chances created (7, behind only Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall) and first for successful dribbles per 90 (2.4).

He’s at his best when he’s carrying the ball and potentially he could get joy against Riccardo Calafiori if he gets the nod.

Calafiori is a tough opponent, but one would think that right now, George – who cost Everton £24 million in total (via BBC Sport) – would give him more trouble than Brennan Johnson, who has failed to make an impact since joining.

Spurred on by the notion of stealing headlines from the absent Saka, George really could be a key man for Everton this weekend.