Arsenal will be without Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber for tonight's Premier League clash with Fulham at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners are also sweating on the fitness of captain Martin Odegaard, who is a doubt after being substituted early in the midweek Champions League semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid.
Havertz and Timber Ruled Out
Kai Havertz limped off after 34 minutes in last weekend's victory over Newcastle United, heading straight down the tunnel for treatment. The Germany international missed the Champions League semi-final first leg with Atletico Madrid as a result, having started his side's last two matches, and remains unavailable this evening. Mikel Arteta did not provide any further details on Havertz's absence or a timeline for his return when he spoke to the press on Friday. But having been ruled out today, he will surely now also be a doubt for next week's second leg against Atletico.
Jurrien Timber, meanwhile, has missed Arsenal's last nine games with a groin issue. Arsenal's first-choice right-back has not recovered in time for the visit of the Cottagers and, like Havertz, there is no clear return date yet.
Odegaard a Doubt, Merino Sidelined
Martin Odegaard was replaced before the hour mark in the Spanish capital midweek, sparking concern back in Norway that he could still be dealing with a persistent knee injury. The Gunners captain is a doubt for today's game, with Arteta suggesting on Friday that a late decision will be made on his fitness. Mikel Merino also remains sidelined, with signs this week suggesting he may not return before the end of the season.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup
After being restored to the starting XI against Manchester City two weeks ago, the loss of Havertz is a huge blow for Arteta in the title run-in. Viktor Gyokeres has struggled as of late but turned in one of his best performances for the club against Atletico midweek, one that will fully justify his return to the side tonight.
Arsenal predicted XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Rice, Partey, Odegaard (if fit); Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli.
Match Details
Arsenal vs Fulham kicks off at 5:30pm this evening. You can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, with streaming also available through the Sky Go app and NOW TV for subscribers. You can also follow all the action with Metro's LIVE matchday blog.
Fulham team news: Fulham are without three key players for the clash, providing a boost for Arsenal. The visitors will be missing midfielder Harrison Reed and defenders Kenny Tete and Tim Ream due to injury.
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