Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a crucial injury update ahead of the Premier League clash against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday.
Following their dramatic 3-2 comeback win over Palace in the Carabao Cup quarter-final, where Gabriel Jesus netted his first hat-trick for the club, Arsenal is set to face the Eagles again in league action.
Arteta confirmed that four key players are now fit and ready for selection. Declan Rice, who was sidelined due to a minor injury, has recovered and is available for the match. Similarly, Riccardo Calafiori has overcome a groin issue and is back in contention.
Arteta also revealed that defenders Takehiro Tomiyasu and Oleksandr Zinchenko are likely to be fit for the game.
Speaking to reporters, Arteta stated: “Rice and Calafiori are both available to be in the squad. Tomiyasu and Zinchenko probably available as well.” This positive update comes at a critical time, as Arsenal seeks to regain momentum in the Premier League after back-to-back draws against Fulham and Everton.
The Gunners are keen to strengthen their league campaign and avoid further slip-ups. However, facing a well-organized Crystal Palace side won’t be easy. In their last encounter, Arsenal struggled in the first half but turned the game around in the second half to secure victory.
Palace enters the match in good form, having accumulated nine points from their last five league outings. They are expected to pose a tough challenge, making Arsenal’s returning players even more significant.
The availability of Rice and Calafiori adds depth and stability to Arsenal’s squad, especially in midfield and defense. With their fitness restored, Arteta might consider starting them to bolster the team from the outset.
This injury boost could be pivotal as Arsenal aims to reignite their title ambitions and secure an essential three points at Selhurst Park. Fans will be eager to see how Arteta’s lineup takes shape and whether the returning stars can make an immediate impact on the pitch.
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