Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the fitness of Gabriel Magalhaes ahead of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup fourth round clash with Preston North End. Gabriel had initially tried to shake off a problem during a Premier League match but was substituted for the first time this season and was seen icing his knee on the bench. After the match, Arteta was unsure about the details of Gabriel’s injury.
Mikel Arteta said, “I don’t know but he could not run. I don’t know what happened. I don’t know if it’s the knee joint or the ankle. They’re assessing him now so… *touches wood*.”
Later, Arteta was able to provide more clarity on the issue.
Mikel Arteta said, “We’re still assessing him. It doesn’t look that bad at all. He was much better the next day. He will be out for a few weeks I would say.”
The update continues with the situation on another player who has been out due to an injury. The Norwegian has been sidelined since September with an ankle problem but is nearing a return to training.
Mikel Arteta said, “He’s been on the grass for a few weeks, but there is still a few boxes to tick.”
In discussing Jurrien’s condition, Arteta mentioned there were no new injuries.
Mikel Arteta said, “Jurrien was fine. He was very tired. He’s been out for a while and he could not continue the game. Not a new injury there at all.”
Arteta is expected to field a heavily rotated side against Preston on Wednesday night. Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri are among several academy players slated to start, while Tommy Setford could possibly make his first-team debut.
