Gabriel Magalhaes is a “big concern,” according to Mikel Arteta, ahead of this weekend’s crucial Premier League match between Arsenal and Newcastle. The Arsenal manager continued by saying that he “doesn’t know” if William Saliba would be eligible for selection for the Sunday afternoon trip to St. James’ Park.
Since Sporting CP eliminated Arsenal from the Europa League, Saliba has been sidelined with a back injury. In his absence, Rob Holding has been filling in, but Arteta decided to give Jakub Kiwior his first Premier League start against the Blues.
Gabriel went down on the pitch three times with various problems before eventually being substituted by Arteta during the win against Frank Lampard’s side. Following their victory over Chelsea and return to the top of the Premier League standings last night, the Gunners now face another crucial match at Newcastle.
After the contest, Arteta acknowledged that Gabriel’s injury issues during the game are “a big concern.” “He [Gabriel] tried for 10 to 15 minutes and he couldn’t carry on – a big concern,” the Gunners manager remarked.
Arteta was questioned about Saliba’s availability for this weekend’s trip to Tyneside during his post-game interview with Sky Sports. With a smile, the Spaniard answered, “I don’t know.”
The absence of both of Arsenal’s starting centre backs could force Kiwior and Holding to play together in the back. This would be a major setback for Arteta and the Gunners as they battle Eddie Howe’s high-flying team, who have virtually locked themselves a Champions League spot for next season, for the Premier League crown.
source from: msn.com
