Mikel Arteta confirms injured Arsenal star could make comeback against Liverpool
One injured Arsenal player may make a comeback against Liverpool on Sunday, according to Mikel Arteta.
Apart for Mohamed Elneny and Takehiro Tomiyasu, who both sustained injuries that will end their seasons, the Arsenal are in generally good shape as they get ready for a crucial test of their title-winning credentials.
Since Arteta was still a key component of Arsene Wenger’s midfield in 2012, the Gunners have failed to win at Anfield, and William Saliba’s health could make the difference in whether or not that trend is reversed.
The France international missed the previous two games after suffering a back injury during the team’s Europa League loss to Sporting Lisbon last month.
Rob Holding has stepped up as a result of Saliba’s inability to train owing to a back ailment, but Arteta had hoped the 22-year-old would play during the run-in.
William Saliba has missed the last two contests due to a back issue.
William Saliba has missed the last two contests due to a back issue. (Image via Getty)
Eddie Nketiah is also getting close to being fully healthy after recovering from an ankle injury, but Arteta would not say which player might have the chance to play at Anfield.
In his pre-game press conference, he stated, “We have some hope with one of them; perhaps he’ll be able to practice tomorrow.”
Arteta responded, “We’ll have to see,” when asked to be more specific about who he was alluding to. I won’t reveal it to you! [who] .’
Bukayo Saka, meantime, was only healthy enough to start on the bench against Leeds United last weekend, but Arteta said the talented winger has recovered completely from illness and is in line to start.