Arsenal finally make their long-awaited return from the international break on Monday as Mikel Arteta gears his side up to face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. The pressure is all on the Gunners, with top four rivals Manchester United and Tottenham already playing over the weekend.
The side are in the driving seat for a Champions League finish this season though, with two games in hand over both Spurs and the Red Devils. That will be reduced to just one following the clash with Palace, knowing three points are vital to the cause.
However, games don’t get much tougher than a trip to face the Eagles, who have been flying under new boss Patrick Vieira. The former midfielder has gone down as one of the best Arsenal players of all-time, captaining the Gunners in his time at the club.
READ MORE: Every word Mikel Arteta said on UEFA’s proposed changes, Nicolas Pepe and Crystal Palace
He will be looking to derail his ex-club though, with a 2-2 draw in the reverse fixture proving their ability. With all that said, here’s a look at the latest injury news for Arsenal ahead of the clash.
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Takehiro Tomiyasu has been out of action for a number of weeks due to injuries he sustained in both calves, meaning he has been in and out of the side. The Japanese international missed out on joining up with his nation over the March break, but has been more involved in club training sessions since and could make his return on Monday.
What Arteta has said: “I think he [Takehiro Tomiyasu] will be close. He has been training more and more. He will be joining some sessions this week and let’s see how it is.”
Expected return: Crystal Palace (A) – April 4
Aaron Ramsdale
Aaron Ramsdale missed the win over Villa with a muscle injury suffered before the match, with backup ‘keeper Bernd Leno stepping up in his absence. The German shot-stopper may be called upon again in south London with his colleague still a doubt for Monday’s clash.
Ramsdale has found some fine form since moving to the Emirates, but missed out on an international camp with England in March due to his injury.
What Arteta has said: “With Aaron it’s a doubt. He hasn’t trained yet so we don’t know what he’ll be able to do on Monday.”
Expected return: N/A
Bukayo Saka
Bukayo Saka was the hero last time out in the Premier League, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win over Aston Villa at Villa Park. However, the forward withdrew from the most recent England international squad after testing positive for Covid-19 and missed the friendly victories over Switzerland and Ivory Coast during the break.
He has since returned to training after a period of isolation and is in contention to start at Palace, with the break potentially putting him in good stead for the final stretch of the season.
What Arteta has said: “Bukayo [Saka] is feeling good. He’s training today, hopefully.”
Expected return: Crystal Palace (A) – April 4
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