Mikel Arteta said what Bukayo Saka has achieved in his five years playing regular football for Arsenal is "rare" for a player of his age.
Wednesday marks the five-year anniversary of Saka's senior Gunners debut, when he came on as a second-half substitute in the Europa League win over Vorskla Poltava.
Arteta was asked if he fears for the 22-year-old against Lens on Wednesday after he was taken off in the reverse fixture with a muscular injury.
"He is targeted because he is one of our most dangerous players and teams know that," Arteta said.
"What he’s done in the five years is remarkable. When you look at his stats and how consistent he has been, it's very rare to see that at his age.
"He's a huge part of both teams [Arsenal and England] and you have to see the impact he has in games. He is crucial for us.
"Getting to the top is one thing, but maintaining it is something else. He has done it for five years.
"The way he is improving is really steady - but fast as well. He is still so humble. He has got the right mentality. The right family. The right advice round him. That’s what makes him special.
"He wants more because there is much more to come."
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