Arsenal faces several injury concerns as they prepare for a crucial match against Liverpool. Mikel Arteta hopes to have some key players return for the clash. Arsenal recently lost 2-0 to Bournemouth, which dealt a blow to their title hopes. William Saliba received a red card in that match, missing the upcoming Liverpool game.ome players, like Ben White, returned against Bournemouth, while Kai Havertz and Thomas Partey also played. Gabriel Martinelli came off the bench, and Oleksandr Zinchenko was an unused substitute. However, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Jurrien Timber were not available. All eyes are on the upcoming Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk to see if they can play.
Bukayo Saka suffered a hamstring injury during a match with England. He withdrew from the squad and underwent a scan. Arsenal hoped the injury was minor, but Saka did not play against Bournemouth. Arteta mentioned that they did not want to risk him. Saka is reportedly making progress and may return for the Shakhtar game.
Martin Odegaard has been sidelined since late August due to an ankle injury suffered while on international duty. He had expressed optimism about returning soon but did not play against Bournemouth. Arteta indicated that next week would be crucial for Odegaard’s recovery. If he can’t play against Liverpool, the Carabao Cup match against Preston might be a possibility for his return.
Jurrien Timber was expected to return after the international break. He was close to being fit but was absent for the Bournemouth game. Arteta confirmed that they are being cautious with him due to his previous serious knee injury. Timber may also be available for the Shakhtar match or the Liverpool game.
Takehiro Tomiyasu recently returned from a knee injury but experienced another setback. Arteta did not know how long he would be out but hoped it wouldn’t be for an extended period. Tomiyasu has been training hard to regain his fitness. Kieran Tierney has not played since June due to a serious hamstring injury, and there is no clear timeline for his return.
The injury situation is challenging for Arsenal as they approach a critical stretch of matches. Arteta is hopeful that Saka and Odegaard can contribute soon, especially against Liverpool. The team’s depth will be tested as they navigate these injury concerns.
