Bukayo Saka made a sensational return to action on Saturday, delivering a performance that former Premier League midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker described as "infectious" in Arsenal's commanding 3-0 victory over Fulham. The winger, affectionately known as the "Starboy," marked his first start since recovering from an Achilles injury sustained in March with a goal and an assist in the first half alone. His impact was so profound that he was substituted at halftime, with an eye on Tuesday's crucial Champions League semi-final second leg against Atletico Madrid.

"That's why they call him the Starboy," Reo-Coker said on BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast. "When you're at a club like Arsenal, with what they're going through, and your top players are playing well, it becomes infectious. Saka played with a smile on his face. When was the last time we saw him smile like that on a football pitch? It made a big difference."

The Gunners had been struggling for form in recent weeks, but Saka's presence seemed to reignite the entire squad. "With him, they played with a lot more energy, enthusiasm, and aggression than we have seen for a while," Reo-Coker noted. "It was like the messaging from Arteta is finally starting to come through to the players. Arteta looks like he has finally got his team to believe they're on fire, and they put on a very good performance against Fulham."

For Arsenal fans, Saka's return couldn't have come at a better time. The team has been battling inconsistency, but the 22-year-old's spark provided a much-needed lift. "When I look at Saka's attitude and performance this weekend, I look at the rest of the Arsenal team and wonder why they weren't doing this weeks ago," Reo-Coker added. "Something feels different with him in the team."

As the Gunners gear up for their Champions League showdown, Saka's early substitution suggests he'll be fresh and ready to lead the charge. If Saturday's display is any indication, the "Starboy" is back—and so is Arsenal's swagger.