Mikel Arteta has provided an update on Arsenal’s injury condition ahead of Saturday’s crucial Premier League clash against Sunderland.
The Gunners could go nine points clear at the top of the standings with victory over the Black Cats at the Emirates, with second-placed Manchester City not in action until Sunday when they face champions Liverpool.
Arsenal remain without several key players for the clash, one of whom is Mikel Merino, who faces an extended spell on the sidelines with a foot injury. The Spanish midfielder’s return date is close to the end of the season, meaning he will play no part against Sunderland.
“Obviously, it’s a big blow. Mikel offers something unique in the team, but he’s going to be out for four months, unfortunately, with a very rare injury”, Arteta revealed in Friday’s pre-match press conference as quoted by Arsenal official website.
Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Max Dowman will also miss the weekend fixture through injury. Saka picked up a hip problem during the warmup ahead of last weekend’s emphatic 4-0 win over Leeds United and was also absent for the midweek win against Chelsea in the EFL Cup.
“His hip is getting much better; hopefully, very soon he will be with us; very soon.”
Meanwhile, Odegaard came on as a substitute against Leeds United, but was completely out of the squad against Chelsea with a minor injury, which will also affect his availability for this weekend’s clash.
“Martin is getting better. It’s a matter of days for him”, Arteta continued.
For teenage sensation Dowman, he remains sidelined with an ankle ligament injury picked up in December and is still weeks away from full fitness.
“He hasn’t trained with us yet, so still a few weeks for him, but he’s getting better.”
However, there was some positive news for Arsenal as Dutch defender Jurrien Timber will be available for selection this weekend. The 24-year-old played the full 90 minutes against Chelsea, but missed Thursday’s training session, which had raised doubts over his availability.
“Jurrien is fine. He’s good for the weekend.”
Arsenal dropped points in the reverse fixture last November when the two sides played out a 2-2 draw, with Sunderland snatching a point through a late Brian Brobbey’s goal. This time, a victory would not only strengthen the Gunners’ grip on top spot but also move them closer to a first league title in 22 years.
