Possible Arsenal line-up against Brentford: Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli’s availability remains uncertain while Mikel Arteta has received two injury boosts…

Latest update on Arsenal’s attacking duo ahead of Brentford clash

Possible Arsenal line-up against Brentford: Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli’s availability remains uncertain as Mikel Arteta considers resting certain players ahead of the Porto match.

Mikel Arteta has provided a fitness update on Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, expressing optimism that both players will be available for Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League match against Brentford on Saturday.

During Monday’s impressive 6-0 victory over Sheffield United, both Saka and Martinelli were forced to leave the pitch early. Saka was substituted at half-time due to illness, while Martinelli was taken off in the second half after sustaining a cut on his foot.

During Monday’s impressive 6-0 victory over Sheffield United, both Saka and Martinelli were forced off the pitch early. Saka had to be substituted at half-time due to illness, while Martinelli was taken off midway through the second half because of a cut on his foot.

However, during a press conference on Thursday, Arteta informed reporters that some players had returned on Monday, but Martinelli and Bukayo were dealing with minor issues. He expressed optimism that they would be able to join the squad, but their availability would depend on how they feel tomorrow.

In addition, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Takehiro Tomiyasu were absent from the win at Bramall Lane due to calf injuries. However, they are nearing their comebacks and should be back in action soon.

Jurrien Timber will not be available for Saturday’s game due to ongoing recovery from a knee injury. Arsenal faces a quick turnaround for their Champions League match against Porto after playing Brentford. Arteta might opt for changes in the lineup, potentially resting Jorginho. David Raya will not play against his parent club, giving Aaron Ramsdale a chance to start in goal. Arteta expressed confidence in Ramsdale’s readiness and eagerness to play.

Consequently, Arteta might opt for alterations in his team, and Jorginho could potentially be among those given a rest before the second leg of their last-16 tie.

Due to his ineligibility to face his parent club, David Raya will be absent from the match, providing Aaron Ramsdale with an opportunity to begin as the goalkeeper.

“Ramsdale is completely ready,” Arteta affirmed. “He trains diligently every day and is eager to play, just like the other players who haven’t had many chances. Saturday will present a fantastic opportunity for him.”

Projected Arsenal Starting XI (4-3-3): Ramsdale; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Kiwior; Odegaard, Rice, Havertz; Saka, Trossard, Martinelli

Injury Concerns: Timber (knee)

Ineligible: Raya

Uncertainties: Martinelli (foot), Saka (ill), Tomiyasu (calf), Zinchenko (calf)

Date and Time: Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 5.30pm GMT

Venue: Emirates Stadium

TV Broadcast: Sky Sports

Referee: Rob Jones

Arsenal Squad: Ramsdale, Hein; Gabriel, Cedric, Kiwior, Saliba, Timber, Tomiyasu, White, Zinchenko; Elneny, Havertz, Jorginho, Odegaard, Partey, Rice, Smith Rowe, Vieira; Jesus, Martinelli, Nelson, Nketiah, Saka, Trossard.