Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has, on Sunday, provided an insight into the readiness of star wingers Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli to step back into the fold in north London.
Both Saka and Martinelli, of course, have spent the last month away from base at Arsenal, amid the respective World Cup adventures of England and Brazil.
With Gabriel Jesus having yesterday been joined on the sidelines by another Gunners attacker in Reiss Nelson, concern, in turn, had begun to spread across the Gunners’ fanbase, regarding the choices set to be at the disposal of Mikel Arteta for the club’s return to competitive action.
Arsenal will take to the pitch for the first time since early November on Boxing Day, in a Premier League showdown with capital rivals West Ham United.
Speaking to the media on Sunday, it therefore came as little surprise when the fitness of Saka and Martinelli alike was put to the club’s boss.
And, in news which will no doubt come as a major source of relief for all associated with Arsenal, Arteta went on to confirm:
“We’re waiting for them and they are desperate to be back as well. I’ve spoken to both of them.
“Gabi was here today, with a big smile and big energy. He’s ready to go again. It’s going to be a big boost for the team.”
“Gabi was here today, with a big smile and big energy.”
Mikel Arteta eagerly awaits return of key Arsenal duo.https://t.co/9lMNseqpSy
— Standard Sport (@standardsport) December 18, 2022
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