Mikel Arteta provides injury update as Gabriel Magalhaes ‘misses training’ at Arsenal
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Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has been quizzed on his side’s injuries (Image: Getty)
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta refused to clarify rumours over the availability of defender Gabriel Magalhaes ahead of the Gunners’ Premier League clash with Aston Villa. Speculation had mounted in the hours before Arteta spoke to the media that Gabriel had missed training earlier in the day.
Arteta’s side have struggled with injuries in recent months but had seen the core of their squad return in the weeks prior to Tuesday’s 2-2 draw with Bayern Munich. Bukayo Saka was back in action and opened the scoring in the Champions League quarter-final. Jurrien Timber remains Arsenal’s only long-term absentee following the knee injury he suffered on the opening day of the Premier League season. But Arsenal were reported to have suffered a setback on Friday with claims suggesting that Gabriel had missed training.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was keen to keep his cards close to his chest when asked specifically about Gabriel. The Spaniard responded: “We’ve got one more day to prepare the match. We will see tomorrow if everyone is available.”
Arsenal host Villa in Sunday’s late kick-off and therefore have an extra 24 hours to prepare for the game. Arteta says they will use all the time they need to ensure everyone is fit.
The 42-year-old added: “We have some [issues from the Bayern game] but hopefully with another day we’ll be okay.”
Arteta was also asked about Timber’s recovery, with the 22-year-old absent since August with a knee injury. The full-back will play for the U21s and could feature in a behind-closed-doors fixture. “Still he’s got a few steps to make,” Arteta said. “He needs to play at least a game with the 21s.
We’re going to have an in-house game too. He’s done everything in training now it’s about getting him match fit.” Arsenal will hope to have Gabriel fit for the visit of Villa. The 26-year-old has formed an excellent relationship with centre-back partner William Saliba over the last two years.
Arteta will need everyone fit for the final month of the season. Arsenal are top of the Premier League and could win the title for the first time in two decades in May.
