Mikel Arteta has delivered a fresh injury update ahead of Arsenal’s crucial Premier League trip to Brentford.
The Gunners head to west London on Thursday looking to complete a league double over the Bees after December’s 2-0 win.
However, Arteta is sweating over the fitness of captain Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard.
Saka has not featured since suffering a hip issue during the warm-up before Arsenal’s 4-0 victory at Leeds.
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Odegaard also picked up a minor problem in that same fixture and has yet to return to action.
Trossard, meanwhile, was forced off late in last weekend’s 3-0 win over Sunderland.
Arteta confirmed youngster Max Dowman will miss the Brentford clash as he continues his recovery.
The Spaniard stated the remaining trio will be assessed during the club’s final medical meeting.
Merino surgery adds to Arsenal injury setback
Arteta also addressed Mikel Merino’s recent foot surgery, confirming the procedure went successfully.
The Arsenal boss warned that recovery will take time, stressing that bone healing requires patience.
Merino is expected to be sidelined for several months, though an exact return date remains unclear.
Arsenal currently sit in the Premier League title race with Manchester City applying pressure.
City face Fulham before Arsenal’s fixture, potentially cutting the gap to three points, reports Football London.
Arteta also paid tribute to Thomas Frank following his departure from Tottenham.
He described the Dane as an “excellent coach” and acknowledged the harsh realities of football management.
With key players doubtful, Arsenal’s depth could be tested in a decisive week.
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