Arsenal are set to face Nottingham Forest at the Emirates this weekend, but Mikel Arteta will once again be without several key players. The Gunners, who are aiming to get their Premier League title push back on track after the defeat to Liverpool, will need to carefully manage their squad as injuries continue to mount.
Ben White Nearing Return but Unlikely to Feature
Defender Ben White has missed Arsenal’s last two matches but is pushing hard for a comeback. Reports suggest he could make the squad for Saturday, though Arteta is expected to be cautious. With crucial games against Athletic Club in the Champions League and Manchester City looming, the likelihood is that White will be rested to avoid aggravating his injury.
Saliba Setback Leaves Defensive Gap
Arsenal’s defensive concerns have deepened with William Saliba expected to be sidelined for the next few weeks after twisting his ankle in the warm-up before the Liverpool match. This opens the door for youngsters and recent signings, with either Cristhian Mosquera or £42m addition Piero Hincapié in line for a first Premier League start. Fortunately, Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori and Myles Lewis-Skelly remain fit and available for selection.
Lewis-Skelly Absence Explained
Fans were concerned when Lewis-Skelly was left out of England’s squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Serbia. However, his omission was not injury-related but instead due to FIFA restrictions that prevent national teams from naming more than 23 players. His fitness gives Arteta an extra midfield option heading into the weekend.
Odegaard Back to Full Fitness
In positive news, captain Martin Ødegaard has confirmed that his recent shoulder injury is no longer troubling him. He returned against Liverpool as a substitute and also featured for Norway during the international break, insisting he feels “ready” for the upcoming fixtures. This will be a major boost for Arteta, who relies heavily on his skipper’s influence in midfield.
