Despite being dealt some big scares in recent weeks – Declan Rice and Gabriel Magalhaes were both taken off as a precaution against Crystal Palace a fortnight ago – there has been positive movement in the treatment room. Gabriel Jesus returned to the side last week against Nottingham Forest – though that was premature as he missed out for the visit of Liverpool.
Bukayo Saka’s knock on Sunday was also played down by Arteta, who is often coy on the fitness of his players ahead of their return. Meanwhile Jurrien Timber has taken a giant step towards getting back into action before the end of the season.
Thomas Partey is also closing in on being back in the side. He will be keen to get out onto the pitch as soon as possible as the season enters a vital stage.
Bukayo Saka
Saka started the game against Liverpool. He played 80 minutes before being taken off after a collision with Darwin Nunez that happened after an hour.
Expected return date: West Ham (A) – Sunday, February 11.
Jurrien Timber
Timber is stepping up his work and he is now involved in ball training. There has been a growing sense of optimism around the player that he will play again before the season is over.
The Gunners included the defender in their updated Champions League squad list ahead of their last-16 tie with FC Porto this month. However, it remains to be seen whether he will be back and ready to feature.
Expected return date: Unknown.
Oleksandr Zinchenko
Zinchenko was replaced by Jakub Kiwior at half time against Liverpool with Arteta revealing he felt his calf. The Ukrainian has had several small injury problems this season.
Expected return date: Unknown.
Gabriel Jesus
Jesus missed the game against Liverpool after Arteta revealed he had been playing with fluid in his knee against Nottingham Forest. He was seen in the stands watching at the Emirates Stadium.
Expected return date: West Ham (A) – Sunday, February 11.
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Tomiyasu is back fit after suffering a calf problem which kept him out for most of December. The defender had been on international duty with Japan, however, their run in the Asia Cup came to an end last week and therefore he will likely return to face West Ham this weekend.
Expected return date: West Ham (A) – Sunday, February 11.
Thomas Partey
Partey has taken a giant step towards playing for Arsenal again after a long injury lay-off.
Expected return date: West Ham (A) – Sunday, February 11.
