HIGHLIGHTS : Nottingham Forest 1 — 2 Arsenal Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka score for Arsenal as the Gunners close Gap on Liverpool…

Arsenal managed to narrow the gap on Liverpool, the current Premier League leaders, to just two points after securing a 2-1 victory against Nottingham Forest.

The goals came in the second half, with Gabriel Jesus finding the back of the net in the 65th minute at the City Ground. Shortly after, Bukayo Saka doubled Arsenal’s lead seven minutes later. Although Taiwo Awoniyi’s late goal added some tension, Arsenal successfully maintained their advantage until the final whistle.

The Gunners are set to return to Premier League action tonight following a weekend break. Their first challenge is a visit to the City Ground, where they have suffered defeats in their last three visits. Arsenal will be boosted by the return of Declan Rice and Gabriel to their starting lineup, as they aim to bounce back from a tough period during the Christmas fixtures.

With their recent convincing victory over Crystal Palace, Arsenal currently sits in third place in the table, leaving little room for error as they enter the final stretch of the title race. Nuno Espirito Santo’s Forest, on the other hand, have a four-point cushion above the relegation zone, but their performances in recent cup matches have raised concerns about their form.

Stay updated on the Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal match through Standard Sport’s live match blog, featuring our reporter Simon Collings at the stadium.

Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal: Simon Collings at the City Ground

On my latest visit to the City Ground, I couldn’t help but notice a new addition. Right in front of where the owner sits in the Directors’ Box, there is now a massive 50 inch TV. It’s truly remarkable.

Confirmed Arsenal lineup

The Arsenal starting XI for this match consists of Raya in goal, with White, Saliba, Gabriel, and Zinchenko forming the defensive line. Rice, Odegaard, and Smith-Rowe are in midfield, while Saka, Jesus, and Martinelli lead the attack.

Substitutes: Ramsdale, Cedric, Walters, Kiwior, Jorginho, Havertz, Nelson, Trossard, Nketiah

Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal: Gunners injury update

Mikel Arteta may receive a boost this week with the potential return of several injured Arsenal players. Both Declan Rice and Gabriel have had their issues addressed since the Gunners’ last match against Crystal Palace over a week ago.

The weekend break from FA Cup action has provided the squad with some much-needed rest as they prepare for a busy schedule ahead.

Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal: Mikel Arteta has no plans to leave despite shock Barcelona reports

Despite recent reports linking him to Barcelona, Mikel Arteta has made it clear that he has no intentions of leaving Arsenal at the end of the season.

Reports from Spain on Sunday evening suggested that Arteta is poised to resign from his current position and assume the managerial role at Barcelona in the upcoming summer, following Xavi’s announcement of his departure from the Catalan club.

However, it is important to note that Arteta’s loyalty lies with Arsenal, as he is bound by a contract that extends until 2025. Despite the speculation, he remains fully dedicated to his responsibilities at the London-based club.