As Arsenal navigates through the international break, the fitness of several key players remains a focal point for manager Mikel Arteta. With important matches looming, including a clash with Liverpool.
Arsenal currently sits third in the Premier League table, trailing title rivals Manchester City on goal difference and Liverpool by a single point. They defeated Southampton 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, thanks to goals from Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Bukayo Saka.
So here’s the latest on the injury status of Kai Havertz, Martin Odegaard, Jurrien Timber, Ben White, Thomas Partey, and Kieran Tierney.
Kai Havertz
Kai Havertz has been ruled out of Germany’s upcoming Nations League matches due to a knee issue. Despite completing the full 90 minutes in Arsenal’s recent 3-1 victory over Southampton, the decision to withdraw him from international duty is precautionary. Arsenal’s medical team is optimistic that the break will allow Havertz to recover in time for their next Premier League fixture against Bournemouth on October 19.
Martin Odegaard
Arsenal’s captain, Martin Odegaard, has been sidelined with significant ankle ligament damage sustained during international duty last month. The good news is that Odegaard has made substantial progress in his recovery, shedding his walking boot earlier than expected. While no exact return date has been set, he is expected to be back in late October, potentially in time for the matches against Shakhtar Donetsk and Liverpool.
Jurrien Timber
Jurrien Timber has been dealing with minor injuries that have kept him out of recent games. However, Arteta has indicated that Timber is close to returning. With no international commitments, Timber will focus on his recovery, and fans can expect to see him back on the pitch soon.
Ben White
Ben White missed the recent match against Southampton due to a minor injury. However, he is expected to be available once club football resumes. His return will be a significant boost for Arsenal’s defense as they prepare for a busy schedule post-break.
Thomas Partey
It has already been confirmed that Thomas Partey would not travel with Ghana during the international break.
The Ghana Football Association issued an update on Monday, stating that Thomas is unable to join the Black Stars owing to medical concerns he is currently facing, and his club has booked him for more testing in the coming days.
Although Partey’s historical record may raise concerns, the withdrawal is entirely preventative, comparable to the Havertz situation.
According to Charles Watt, Partey is suffering with illness and it was thought best that he stay in London during the international break, rather than endure a lot of travel.
Kieran Tierney
Kieran Tierney has been dealing with a shoulder injury. The Scottish defender has been making steady progress in his rehabilitation and is expected to return to training soon. His availability will provide Arteta with more options in defense as the season progresses.
The international break offers a crucial window for these players to regain fitness ahead of a demanding fixture list. Fans will be looking forward to their return as the Gunners look to build on their strong start to the season.
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