Mikel Arteta could have a full squad at his disposal for Arsenal’s upcoming game against Aston Villa. Unlike their title rivals, the Gunners have a clean injury list ahead of the next Premier League matchday.
Arsenal Defender Returns From Long-Term Injury
Reclaiming EPL Top Spot
Liverpool went into their Northwest Derby against Manchester United as Premier League leaders on Sunday. The Reds claimed an early lead through Luis Diaz, but two stunning goals from Bruno Fernandez and Kobbie Mainoo almost ruined their eight-game unbeaten run in the league.
Salah salvaged a point for Liverpool by converting a late penalty. However, the 2-2 draw was enough to send Arsenal back to the top of the Premier League. The Gunners and Liverpool both have 71 points from 31 league games, with Mikel Arteta’s men leading the table on goal difference.
A Clean Injury List
On Monday, Arsenal had their last training session before meeting Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals. Mikel Arteta’s entire squad participated in full training, confirming the Gunners have no players on their injury list.
The last player to join team training was Jurrien Timber, who has been out of action since the opening game of the season. According to football.london reporter Kaya Kaynak, the defender completed a short individual session before joining his teammates.
Manchester City and Liverpool Injury Lists
Arsenal’s fitness advantage might become a deciding factor in their neck-and-neck title race against Liverpool and Manchester City. Unlike the Gunners, City and Liverpool both have crucial players on the sidelines.
Man City have struggled with defensive issues in their backline since the international break. Nathan Ake and Kyle Walker missed their side’s trip to Madrid with injury. Josko Gvardiol was also absent from City’s last training session, but he was included in the matchday squad.
Arsenal’s closest rivals, Liverpool, have the most extensive injury list among the title contenders. Joel Matip, Thiago Alcantara, and Ben Doak are not expected to play again this season as they are recovering from long-term injuries. Diogo Jota, Allison Becker, and Trent Alexander-Arnold will all return to partial team training ahead of the weekend, according to Jurgen Klopp. Stefan Bajcetic has also stepped up his recovery and could feature for the Reds before the end of the campaign.
More must-reads: