Mikel Arteta addresses Kieran Tierney’s injury concerns after Arsenal’s return

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Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney suffered an injury during Arsenal’s victory over Crystal Palace in his return to the starting XI, yet Mikel Arteta has calmed fears of another setback for the Scotland international.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has addressed concerns over Kieran Tierney’s injury status following his return to the squad. Tierney, who has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons, made his first appearance for Arsenal in over a year during the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace.

Tierney managed to play 69 minutes of the match before being substituted and replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly due to cramp, not an injury. Arteta reassured fans, stating, “No, just cramp.” He praised Tierney’s performance, highlighting his contribution to the team’s victory.

Arteta emphasized the importance of managing players’ fitness, especially given Arsenal’s current injury crisis. “We have to manage a lot of the players, so they’re probably not going to be fit for tomorrow and are a doubt. I still have 24 hours to make those decisions and hopefully the right ones,” Arteta said.

The manager also acknowledged Tierney’s professionalism and commitment, noting that the Scottish left-back has earned his place in the squad. “He’s training really well and he’s going to have an opportunity for sure with the way the team is looking at the moment,” Arteta added.

With several key defenders still sidelined, Tierney’s return provides a much-needed boost to Arsenal’s defensive options. Arteta’s decision to give Tierney a chance reflects his belief in the player’s ability to contribute positively to the team’s performance.

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