Arsenal to make late fitness calls on five players ahead of Newcastle clash

Image credit: Getty Images

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that late decisions will be made on the availability of Declan Rice, Gabriel Martinelli, Jurrien Timber, and Leandro Trossard ahead of Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Newcastle United. Kai Havertz could also return to action after a long spell on the sidelines.

The Gunners head into their penultimate fixture of the season and final home game at the Emirates Stadium still dealing with several injury concerns. Declan Rice missed the 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Anfield due to a hamstring issue, but has since returned to training and is in contention to feature.

Leandro Trossard, who was forced off during the Liverpool game with a suspected hamstring injury, was also seen participating in an open training session earlier this week. However, Jurrien Timber was absent, and Gabriel Martinelli, who also picked up a knock at Anfield, remains a doubt.

READ MORE: Mikel Arteta sends stark warning to Manchester United and the rest of the ‘Big Six’

Arteta provided a fitness update during his pre-match press conference on Friday, stating: “We are going to decide that tomorrow,” when asked about Havertz’s potential return. “He has done certain parts of the sessions in the past two days. He looks in great shape, but it depends on medical clearance and how Kai actually feels to contribute if required.”

The German forward has not featured since tearing his hamstring in February during a warm-weather training camp in Dubai. Initially ruled out for the rest of the season, Havertz has made a quicker-than-expected recovery and could be available for the final two games, including the season finale against relegated Southampton.

Arteta praised both Havertz and the medical staff, saying: “Unbelievable. His work rate has been outstanding. A lot of credit goes to the medical team. Kai has been pushing hard, and you can see the transformation in him. He’s improved key metrics for a striker and looks in great shape.”

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

On the status of other injured players, Arteta added: “Rice, Martinelli, Timber and Trossard have all done parts of the sessions but not full training. We’ll have to wait until tomorrow to see how they respond to more intense drills.”

Meanwhile, Mikel Merino will miss the Newcastle match due to suspension after being sent off against Liverpool last weekend. Arsenal will also remain without long-term absentees Gabriel Magalhaes, Gabriel Jesus, and Takehiro Tomiyasu.

Sunday’s clash with Newcastle is Arsenal’s fourth meeting with Eddie Howe’s side this season, with the Magpies having already claimed three wins, including a Carabao Cup semi-final double. The Gunners will be hoping to avoid a season sweep and secure second place in the league.

NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal stars issue major demand to Mikel Arteta for upcoming season