Mikel Arteta confirmed defender Ben White sustained a suspected hamstring injury during the 2-1 win over Wolves, calling it “bad news” ahead of upcoming fixtures against Everton and Crystal Palace.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed a significant injury blow to his squad following the dramatic 2-1 late victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Defender Ben White was forced off the pitch with a hamstring problem, marking a negative point in an otherwise vital win.
This injury comes at the start of the crucial festive period, directly ahead of key games against Everton and Crystal Palace.
Arteta expressed concern over the setback, noting White had just started to gain “some momentum” after a previous knee issue.
He revealed that the current lack of defensive options even meant risking William Saliba for the full 90 minutes.
Arteta stated: “It looks like a hamstring [injury], so we don’t know the extent of that, but probably tomorrow or the day after we’ll know more.”
The injury precedes key fixtures, starting with an away trip to Everton, followed by a Carabao Cup tie against Crystal Palace.
While relieved by the late win over Wolves, Arteta admitted the margin “should have been bigger.” He stressed the need to improve “horrible defensive habits” despite securing the three points.