Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta could be given a timely injury boost, with one of his most important players taking part in training on Monday.
Gunners struggling with injuries heading into season-defining week
The Gunners came under fire for excluding 11 players from international duty, but Arteta has since insisted there was no foul play, saying: “We have very good relationships and communication with most of the national teams and of course with (England manager) Thomas Tuchel as well.
“We were always very cooperative. And we were always honest when it came to disclosing each player’s medical condition and it was clear that a clear medical decision had been made and what the final decision was.”
After the international break, Arteta’s side traveled to St Mary’s to face Southampton in the FA Cup, but suffered a shock 2-1 defeat, with the hosts running out 2-1 winners.
The manager was without a number of key players, with the likes of Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice absent, with Gabriel withdrawing with less than 20 minutes left due to injury.
After the match, Arteta revealed he was not too sure about the extent of the Brazilian’s problem, saying: “I don’t know, but I think he felt something. I don’t know exactly what it is. We have to assess him, but obviously when a player is asking for a substitution, that’s never good news.”
Latest information on Gabriel’s fitness revealed ahead of game against Sporting CP
But then a more encouraging update on Gabriel’s fitness was released ahead of Tuesday night’s Champions League quarter-final first leg against Sporting CP.
The Standard reports that the centre-back was spotted in training on Monday morning and could feature against the Portuguese side in the crucial Champions League clash, which would be welcome news for manager Arteta, who had high praise for him earlier this season.
The Spaniard said: “If you ask me what I want in a centre-back, I want someone who can dominate and master both sides of the box. Gabriel can do that.”
“He defends like a world-class defender and attacks like a world-class attacker. When you look at his presence, the way he leads the team, the way he talks to people, his body language, there’s a lot to like about him. It’s no coincidence that he has evolved into one of the best centre-backs in the world.”
The 28-year-old missed most of the season due to a hamstring injury, but was a key player whenever possible, making 39 appearances in all competitions, with an extremely impressive four goals and five assists in that time.
Meanwhile, Saka has missed training, suggesting the England international may not be that close to a return.
