Arsenal will be looking to consolidate fourth-place in the Premier League ahead of the international break when they face Aston Villa on Saturday. Mikel Arteta’s men currently sit one place ahead of Manchester United in fifth, though they have two games in hand over the Red Devils as it stands.
The Gunners are, however, looking to bounce back from defeat in midweek, losing 2-0 to Liverpool at the Emirates. Goals from Diogo Jota and Roberto Firmino dampened spirits, despite a good performance from the home side.
Aston Villa could provide an opportunity to return to winning form, though Villa Park won’t be an easy place to go. The Villans have been inconsistent under Steven Gerrard and look set for a mid-table finish this season.
Villa currently sit in ninth, 14 points clear of the drop zone, but ten points behind Wolves, who are just one place above in eighth. They are off the back of a loss to West Ham and will be hoping to return to form once again.
With all that said, here’s a look at the latest injury news for Arteta ahead of the clash.
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Emile Smith Rowe
Emile Smith Rowe has been out of the side in recent weeks, struggling with a mixture of injuries and a positive Covid test that has kept him sidelined. The 21-year-old made his return from the bench against Liverpool and could feature again at Villa Park.
What Mikel Arteta has said: “He was fine again. He had a little issue before the game but he’s been fine the last two days so hopefully he can have some consistency.”
Expected return: Aston Villa (A) – March 19
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Takehiro Tomiyasu is another that has struggled a lot as of late, suffering with injuries to both calves. This has kept him out for some time, with the club hopeful of a return soon. However, the game at Aston Villa may be too soon, especially after the right-back missed out on a call-up to the Japan Men’s senior team.
What Mikel Arteta has said: “There is a chance [he plays], but we don’t know. Let’s see today. He had a recurring injury around the same place. After that you have to be very cautious.”
Expected return: N/A