Folarin Balogun sends message to Bukayo Saka after penalty miss costs Arsenal against West Ham

Folarin Balogun was one of many players who showed their support for Bukayo Saka after his penalty miss against West Ham.

Sunday was a day to forget for many Arsenal fans, after the Gunners blew a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 on what could be a title-defining afternoon.

Arsenal were cruising after goals from Gabriel Jesus and Martin Odegaard gave them an early lead inside 10 minutes.

However, a clumsy challenge from Gabriel Magalhaes opened the door for a West Ham comeback, as Said Benrahama sent Aaron Ramsdale the wrong way from the penalty spot.

Michail Antonio was guilty at the other end, after the ball struck his hand in the six-yard box, gifting Saka the opportunity to restore Arsenal's two-goal advantage.

However, the 21-year-old was unable to convert, curling his spot-kick wide of the post before Jarrod Bowen got West Ham back on level terms.

Saka later took to social media, issuing an apology on Instagram, to which both players and fans alike bombarded with messages of encouragement and support.

Balogun sends message to Saka after penalty miss

Saka posted a picture of himself looking dejected, accompanied by the caption: "Regardless of the outcome, I’ll always accept my responsibility."

"Apologies Gunners, I’ll do everything I can to make it right."

Balogun, who must have been watching the game while on loan at French side Reims, was one of many to respond to the post, replying with a bicep emoji.

Arsenal skipper Odegaard also sent a message to the winger which read: "All together bro always, we keep going".

While Gabriel said: "Love you bro! We are all together".

Jesus was next to show his support, commenting a love heart and fist pump emoji.

Former players Alexandre Lacazette and Gilberto Silva were among others to offer their encouragement, alongside England's national team account.

Saka has been integral to Arsenal's extraordinary title charge this season, and will hope to get the Gunners back on track against Southampton on Friday.

Topics: Bukayo Saka, Arsenal, Football, Premier League

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno