Mikel Arteta has given an update on Arsenal’s injuries ahead of the team’s important game against Fulham. If the Gunners win, they can widen their lead over second-placed Manchester City to six points. That’s because Pep Guardiola’s relentless challengers won’t make a move until they face European hopefuls Everton on Monday night.
He added, “I think so. Let’s see how everyone is doing tomorrow morning. We haven’t had much practice, so we plan to give a final report tomorrow.”
There are further doubts over the fitness of captain Martin Odegaard, who left midway through the second half against Metropolitano. Asked if he was fit to play this weekend, Arteta said: “We’ll see.”
The Norwegian has been hampered in recent months after suffering a knee injury during the 1-1 draw with Brentford in February. He has endured some periods on the sidelines, but has returned to the starting line-up in recent weeks, aiming to help the Gunners win both Premier League and Champions League honors.
Arteta’s comments suggest there is no guarantee that he will be fit to face Marco Silva’s side at the Emirates Stadium. Bukayo Saka made his second consecutive appearance as a substitute against Spain, while Ricardo Calafioli also returned to the match-day squad after a recent injury.
Timber is understood to be inching closer to a return from a groin strain, but has now been sidelined for more than seven weeks. Havertz’s groin problem is thought to be less serious than initially feared and he could still feature before Arsenal’s season draws to a close.
