Arsenal could be without five first-team players when they take on Sunderland at the Stadium of Light tonight, with Mikel Arteta facing a few selection headaches ahead of the 8pm kick-off.
Ben White, however, has been given the green light to play after appearing to struggle physically during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Napoli.
William Saliba will not be involved. The French defender is still recovering from a back problem that became worse during France’s World Cup campaign, and Arteta admitted there is no definite return date for the centre-back yet.
The Arsenal boss also has doubts over Jurrien Timber and Cristhian Mosquera.
Timber has returned to group training and has reportedly impressed the coaching staff over the past few days. Arteta said the defender is looking in good shape, but a final decision will be made after another training session.
Mosquera has also been making progress after missing Arsenal’s last two matches with a muscular problem picked up against Aston Villa. His availability will depend on how he feels before the game.
Despite the injury concerns, Arsenal have made a perfect start to their Premier League campaign, winning all three of their league matches. They have also conceded just once in all competitions so far.
Gabriel Magalhães and Ezri Konsa have helped fill the gap left by Saliba, while White has played every Premier League minute this season.
Sunderland will also be without two players. Romaine Mundle remains sidelined with a knee injury, while Habib Diarra is still recovering from his own injury.
Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has spoken highly of Arsenal ahead of the meeting, describing Arteta’s side as the best team in Europe at the moment.
The Black Cats will be hoping to cause an upset on home soil, while Arsenal will be determined to continue their perfect start to the Premier League season.
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