Arteta hints that key Arenal players could face Brentford this weekend
Mikel Arteta has shared the latest injury news on Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka as Arsenal prepare to welcome Brentford to the Emirates Stadium tomorrow.
The Gunners are riding high after a memorable 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League, one of the best nights ever at the Emirates.
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There were worries late for Arteta in that game when Saka and Rice limped off. However, Arteta has now eased concerns with a reassuring update.
Arteta gives updates on Saka and Rice's injuries
'With Dec and Bukayo, they're both fit,' Arteta said. 'It was just a matter of two kicks, and they recovered well, so they are available tomorrow.
'Ricky's (Calafiori) is progressing really well. I think to give you a timeline is difficult because he needs to step up, especially having more people around and how then he reacts after that, but he's in a good place.'
Arteta also spoke about Kai Havertz, who has been out of the squad since February with a hamstring injury.
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Havertz recently shared a video of his recovery, raising hopes of a possible return.
Arteta confirmed there might be enough time left for Havertz to play again this season, although nothing is certain.
'So, we have some extra days then,' Arteta added. 'Let's see. Every injury isn't the same. Hopefully we can have him, but let's wait, I think.
'Once you get to the last stage of that rehab is when you can understand better how close or far away you are to making that next step.'
When asked if he would consider resting some key players with the second leg of the European tie coming up, Arteta said he would assess the squad's condition.
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'We'll look now at how the players have recovered because it's not only about this game – it's about the schedule that we have in the next few weeks as well,' Arteta said.
'Whoever plays will be very competitive.'
Arsenal will be eager to keep up the momentum and secure another vital win at home. After that, Arteta will hope Saka and Rice continue their heroics in the second leg of the Madrid clash.
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