Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta provided the latest updates on fitness for several players ahead of the Champions League clash on Tuesday night
Mikel Arteta has provided some of the Arsenal stars’ fitness updates ahead of his Champions League encounter with athletic clubs. Gunner will take on the La Liga Liga outfit in the first league phase fixture of the competition this season.
Arsenal will join the game after a 3-0 victory over Premier League Nottingham Forest. However, Arteta is forced to name the team to face some players and bystanders.
Martin Odegard suffered a shoulder injury during his victory at Forest, but Bukayo Saka remains on the sidelines with a muscle injury that kept him out of the last two matches.
Ben White hasn’t travelled with the Arsenal squad either, but Kai Herberts and Gabriel Jesus are also staying on the sidelines, Football reports.
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Arteta spoke with a Spanish reporter Tuesday night, where he was asked about the availability of several members of his team.
When asked if Odegard could be used to play against the athletic club, the Arsenal boss replied “No.” Arteta also confirmed that the club’s captain is at his London home.
“Gabby (Yes), Kai (Herberts), Ben (White), Martin (Odegard) are still out,” Arteta added.
Before explaining how long England International would expect to be on the sidelines, Arteta also asked if there was any updates on Saka fitness.
“He still has a lot to do and it’s very early to understand which week he’s available,” he said.
“He will certainly be available as soon as possible.
“Unfortunately, we already have a few players, meaning we are restricted at certain positions.”
Arsenal was able to welcome William Saliba’s return to the starting lineup due to a clash with the athletic club.
The defender traveled towards Spain after missing a victory in Forest with an ankle injury he picked up before an international break.
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