Arsenal assess Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard ahead of crucial week
Arsenal are awaiting vital injury updates on Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard ahead of a defining week in their pursuit of an unprecedented quadruple.
The Premier League leaders extended their advantage at the summit with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Everton.
Late strikes from Viktor Gyokeres and Max Dowman, who became the youngest scorer in Premier League history, secured the points.
Mikel Arteta’s side now require just 16 points from their remaining seven league fixtures after title rivals Manchester City drew at West Ham.
Timber concern clouds vital week
Attention now shifts to a Champions League last-16 second leg against Bayer Leverkusen, followed by Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester City.
However, preparations have been disrupted after Timber was forced off late in the first half against the Toffees.
The Dutch defender received on-pitch treatment before being surprisingly replaced by Cristhian Mosquera.
He is now considered a major doubt for both crucial cup fixtures at the Emirates Stadium and Wembley respectively.
Captain nearing crucial comeback
Arsenal have been without club captain Odegaard since he provided an assist in last month’s resounding north London derby victory over Tottenham.
The Norwegian playmaker has missed five matches across all competitions with a persistent knee problem.
Leandro Trossard also sat out the weekend victory having sustained a knock against Mansfield.
The Belgian international did participate in training before the first-leg trip to Germany, raising hopes of an imminent return.
When questioned on the availability of his captain and Trossard, the Arsenal manager remained cautious.
“We will have to wait and see, speak to the doctors on whether they are involved or not.”
Long-term midfield absentee
While Arteta hopes to welcome back key attacking personnel, his midfield options remain restricted.
Spanish international Mikel Merino remains sidelined after undergoing surgery last month on a serious foot injury.
