‘They are closer’: Arteta drops big injury update on Odegaard & Saka ahead of Shakhtar game | OneFootball

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an njury update on three key players ahead of the Champions League clash against Shakhtar Donetsk at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners suffered their first defeat of the campaign against Bournemouth on Saturday. They had an underwhelming start and were handed a big disadvantage after William Saliba’s 30th-minute red card.

Saliba is eligible to play against Shakhtar on Tuesday night, but it remains to be seen whether the club will appeal his sending-off.

Arteta has provided a fresh fitness update on Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka, who missed the trip to Bournemouth with ankle and hamstring injuries.

He told reporters (via football.london): “They are closer. Both progressing well. Martin not fit. With Bukayo let’s see how he is with the training session later on.”

The manager added that full-back Jurrien Timber will also be involved in today’s session and his availability will depend on how he deals with training.

Arsenal have picked up four points from their opening two games in the Champions League. They are the favourites to beat Shakhtar and need a strong response after Saturday’s 2-0 loss.

Saka is likely to face a late fitness test for the game. If he is unfit to start, Raheem Sterling will likely continue on the right wing.

The 29-year-old had more touches in the opposition box than any other Arsenal player despite being substituted early in the first half.

Arteta could use Ethan Nwaneri instead of Mikel Merino in the number 10 role. Merino struggled on his full debut.