Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has offered fresh injury updates ahead of Sunday’s North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
The Gunners visit the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the second league meeting between the rivals this season, looking to return to winning ways after a frustrating 2-2 draw against Wolves in their last outing, which dealt a major blow to their title hopes.
They have received a significant boost on the injury front with the return of Leandro Trossard, while Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz are both expected to undergo late fitness tests ahead of the clash.
Trossard came on during the draw at Wolves for Bukayo Saka, who was withdrawn as a precaution. However, the Belgian forward was later forced off in stoppage-time, but has recovered and will feature in Sunday’s derby.
Odegaard will be assessed further on Saturday, but there is optimism surrounding his participation in the clash.
The Norwegian has endured an injury-hit season and has missed Arsenal’s last two matches after picking up an injury to his left knee during the 2-2 draw against Brentford earlier this month.
Havertz, meanwhile, suffered a muscular injury before the Brentford clash and was initially ruled out of Sunday’s clash, but could now make a surprise return to action.
Speaking during Friday’s pre-match press conference, Arteta revealed that Odegaard and Havertz are in contention to feature for Arsenal in Sunday’s crucial clash.
“Well, we have to wait until tomorrow, but there is a big possibility that they are available for the game”, the Spaniard said in quotes revealed by the official Arsenal website.
Arsenal head into Sunday’s showdown knowing that victory is crucial to keep alive their hopes of winning a first Premier League title in 22 years, having dropped points in their previous two.
