It was the only scratch on an otherwise perfect Monday for the boss. His side once more responded to their rivals in the title race, ramping up the goal difference tally some more as well. Ahead of just one more domestic game before the international break, Arsenal have well and truly hit their stride.
It’s the visit of Brentford to come, and the chance to go top – even briefly – is a big one. Manchester City and Liverpool will fight it out on Sunday in the first of several heavyweight clashes between the top sides in the coming month.
The head coach will be hoping to have both Martinelli and Saka available for the game. He has already been able to welcome back some of his other stars in a boost to the depth at a vital time of the season.
Bukayo Saka
Bukayo Saka was substituted at half-time during Arsenal’s win over Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. Speaking after the game, Mikel Arteta confirmed that the change was due to the England international feeling sick.
Injury: Illness.
Expected return date: Brentford (H) – Saturday, March 9.
Gabriel Martinelli
Gabriel Martinelli was substituted in the second half of the win against Sheffield United. The Brazilian was helped off the pitch at Bramall Lane by two members of the Arsenal medical staff.
Injury: Cut on his foot.
Expected return date: Unknown.
David Raya
Due to still being a Brentford player, Arsenal loanee David Raya is ineligible to feature against his parent club.
Expected return date: Porto (H) – Tuesday, March 12
Oleksandr Zinchenko
Oleksandr Zinchenko missed the win over Sheffield United as he continues to recover from a calf injury. There is hope, though, that the left-back could return for Saturday’s clash against Brentford at the Emirates Stadium.
Injury: Calf
Expected return date: Brentford (H) – Saturday, March 9
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Takehiro Tomiyasu is also recovering from a calf injury and missed the win over Sheffield United in South Yorkshire. Arteta will hope to have the versatile defender back available when they face Brentford this weekend.
Injury: Calf.
Expected return date: Brentford (H) – Saturday, March 9.
Jurrien Timber
Jurrien TImber has been sidelined for the majority of the season as he continues his recovery from an ACL injury he sustained last August.
Timber recently returned to training but is yet to be part of the Arsenal matchday squad as Arteta waits for the green light from the medical department. A return may be possible after the March international break, depending on how the next few weeks transpire.
Injury: ACL.
Expected return date: Unknown.
