Mikel Arteta provided the latest Arsenal squad news ahead of his side’s trip to the East Midlands where they take on an intimidating Nottingham Forest side. Following the defeat to West Ham at the weekend, the mood has hit a new low and Liverpool’s win at Manchester City only worsened that feeling.
The worry in terms of fitness after the defeat to the Hammers was with Ethan Nwaneri. Forced off before the end, Arteta claimed that the 17-year-old was unable to finish the clash due to fatigue.
Arteta provided an update on the squad on Tuesday morning, which gave us clarity on the young starlet’s situation. “Ethan, he was just cramping,” Arteta told reporters. “His load has been very different in recent weeks.”
The wait goes on for Arteta to welcome back both Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. There is hope that perhaps they could return after the international break, the Arsenal manager admitted that while it remains some way away, the process itself is positive.
“Bukayo and Gabby are progressing well but a bit far to come back," the Spaniard said.
Arsenal take on Nottingham Forest at 7:30pm UK time on Wednesday with coverage and build-up available on football.london’s matchday blog four hours before kick-off.
