Mikel Arteta has brought some positive news to Arsenal fans regarding the injury of their young prodigy, Ethan Nwaneri. After hobbling off the field towards the end of their narrow 1-0 loss to West Ham, concerns were raised about the 17-year-old’s fitness. This is the same player who has been in stunning form following his return from injury in January, even delivering a striking performance against Leicester City a couple of weeks ago.
With the absence of stars like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, Nwaneri was expected to step up and fill those big shoes. However, in the frustrating setback against West Ham, he couldn’t quite make his mark and had to exit the match just seven minutes before the final whistle, causing a bit of a scare.
Fortunately, Arteta has alleviated major worries by clarifying that Nwaneri was merely suffering from cramps due to an increased workload recently, rather than any serious injury.
The Injury Front and Team Update
Injuries have been a persistent thorn for Arsenal this season. While Nwaneri should be fit for their upcoming fixture against Nottingham Forest, Arteta shared some updates about other key players still out of action.
Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are making progress but aren’t ready to return just yet. And to add to Arteta’s selection dilemmas, Myles Lewis-Skelly faces suspension, further depleting the squad’s depth.
On a brighter note for Arsenal, Ben White marked his comeback following an extended layoff due to knee surgery. Last weekend, he finally reappeared on the field, a much-anticipated return after more than three months sidelined.
Arteta Praises Ben White’s Comeback
Having Ben White back is a huge plus for Arteta, particularly for the stability he brings to the right side of the defense. Arteta highlighted White’s crucial role alongside Saka and Martin Odegaard, a trio that the team has missed seeing in action together this season due to various injuries.
“He offers something unique on that right side,” Arteta shared. “It’s fantastic having him back, providing us with more options, his presence, and his enthusiasm around the squad. His absence was definitely felt.”
Arsenal’s Pursuit of the Premier League Crown
Following Liverpool’s win over Manchester City, Arsenal now finds themselves 11 points adrift at the summit of the Premier League. However, Arteta is unwavering in his desire not to throw in the towel on the title chase.
“If not, I will pack my bags and leave,” he joked when quizzed about Arsenal’s odds. “Mathematically, it’s still on. Just a few days ago, we nearly narrowed the gap. Now, it’s a game and a half behind. No matter the situation, we just have to push forward.”
Arteta doesn’t underestimate the size of the task, but if Arsenal can clinch the title under these circumstances, it would mark a historic accomplishment in the league.
“The challenge is steeper than it was a few days ago, but to win the Premier League, you must achieve something extraordinary,” he remarked.
With Nottingham Forest on the horizon, it’s critical for Arsenal to regroup and keep their hopes alive in this Premier League marathon.
