Arsenal supervisor Mikel Arteta says he’s “praying” that the worldwide break will cross with out including to their already important health issues.
Arteta described the current damage setbacks as an “absolute nightmare” and solid doubt on whether or not Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice can be accessible for England’s upcoming Nations League video games in opposition to Greece and the Republic of Eire.
Each Saka and Rice had been compelled to depart the sector throughout Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Sunday, with Saka limping off late within the match and Rice taking part in by way of the ache of a damaged toe suffered within the earlier recreation in opposition to Newcastle.
Martin Odegaard returned to Arsenal’s lineup for the primary time since late August after an ankle damage, whereas Gabriel Martinelli not too long ago sustained a calf damage whereas on worldwide responsibility with Brazil.
Arsenal have additionally missed different key gamers this season, together with Jurrien Timber, Thomas Partey, Ben White, and Takehiro Tomiyasu, because the membership offers with a slew of health points forward of their subsequent recreation on November 23 in opposition to Nottingham Forest.
“What I’m praying is that after the worldwide break now we have the crew totally bodily geared up. That they’re accessible and that they’re match as a result of it’s been a nightmare for eight weeks,” Arteta stated.
🗞️ At this time’s outcome
🗞️ Odegaard’s efficiency
🗞️ Health updates on Rice and SakaEach phrase from Mikel’s post-Chelsea presser is accessible to learn now 👇
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 10, 2024
“Doubt after doubt, difficulty after difficulty, not solely with those that aren’t in a position to play, however with those who’re in a position to play just for sure moments and never in a position to play.”
When requested about Saka and Rice’s availability for England, Arteta stated: “It doesn’t look good, as a result of for 2 gamers of that significance to inform you they can’t proceed within the recreation, clearly it’s not excellent news.
“[They are] two gamers that simply got here off, I don’t know whether or not to count on them to be match as a result of if [they are] they don’t come off.”
Arteta added that he intends to seek the advice of with Odegaard earlier than deciding on his participation in Norway’s upcoming worldwide fixtures.
