Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Jurrien Timber is fit to face Sunderland, though the Gunners will be without Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and long-term absentee Mikel Merino.
Mikel Arteta has confirmed a mixed bag of injury news ahead of Arsenal’s meeting with Sunderland. While Jurrien Timber is “fine” and expected to start, Bukayo Saka is likely to miss out despite his hip feeling “much better.”
Captain Martin Odegaard also remains sidelined, with Arteta noting he is still “a few days away.” Noni Madueke is expected to continue deputizing on the wing.
The Gunners face a significant long-term setback as Mikel Merino prepares for foot surgery. Arteta lamented the loss of the midfielder, stating:
“Mikel offers something unique in the team but he’s going to be out for four months unfortunately with a very rare injury.”
Meanwhile, teenage prospect Max Dowman remains weeks away from a return as he recovers from an ankle ligament injury.