Arsenal injury, suspension list and return dates for Chelsea: Bukayo Saka, Ben White, Kai Havertz latest
Returning to their brilliant last weekend, Premier League leaders Arsenal quickly return to the London derby on Sunday, when Chelsea host the visitors at the Emirates Stadium.
Mikel Arteta’s troops tore apart Tottenham Hotspur on February 22, securing a dominant 4-1 victory over their north London rivals thanks to doubles from Eberechi Eze and Viktor Gyokeres.
The Gunners have regained a five-point lead over Manchester City. top of the table in the process, but the Citizens still have a game in hand and will close the gap if they manage to defeat Leeds United on Saturday.
Here, Sports Mole takes stock of the latest Arsenal injury and suspension news ahead of their clash with Chelsea, which was subjected to agonizing treatment. Burnley draw 1-1 last time.
© Imago / Every second media
Status: Small doubt
Type of injury: Ankle
Possible return date: March 1 (vs. Chelsea)
Bukayo Saka suffered a painful twist to his ankle in the dying embers of last weekend’s win over Spurs, but he left the field unassisted, and Arteta made no mention of his problem after the match.
As a result, it can be assumed that Saka will be fit to face Chelsea, but Noni Madueke will no doubt consider a start against his former employers.
© Imago / Sportimage
Status: A major doubt
Type of injury: Not specified
Possible return date: March 1 (vs. Chelsea)
Ben White was a surprise absentee from the team sheet last weekend, and Arteta explained that the injured right-back was suffering from a problem, his participation against the Blues is therefore in doubt.
© Imago
Status: A major doubt
Type of injury: Thigh
Possible return date: March 1 (vs. Chelsea)
Kai Havertz was close to returning from his thigh injury for the north London derby but failed to qualify.
However, the German apparently has a good chance of being able to receive a visit from his former employers.
© Imago/Zuma Press Wire
Status: Out
Type of injury: Foot
Possible return date: Unknown
The only long-term absentee from Arsenal, Mikel Merino is recovering from the foot operation he underwent earlier in February and is fighting to return in time for the end of the season – and the World Cup.
© Imago / Action Plus
Status: Small doubt
Type of injury: Ankle
Possible return date: March 1 (vs. Chelsea)
Max Dowman was seen in training a few weeks ago following an ankle injury, but has yet to return to competition nor has he played for the Under-21s since suffering his problem, so his availability remains uncertain.
ARSENAL SUSPENSION LIST
Arsenal have no players suspended for this match.