Mikel Arteta has provided updates on star forwards Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli after the pair were subbed off in Arsenal’s thumping win over Sheffield United.
The Gunners continued their remarkable form in front of goal in the Premier League on Monday night, plundering six unanswered goals against a rather dire Sheffield United side at Bramall Lane. The 6-0 win was the fourth game since late January in which they’ve scored four or more, and it was also their seventh league triumph on the spin.
Despite the emphatic victory, concerns have been raised regarding the fitness of Saka and Martinelli after the pair were subbed off relatively early in the game – Saka in the 46th minute and Martinelli in the 64th minute – with suspected injuries.
Speaking to the press after the game, however, manager Arteta was keen to confirm that both were dealing with minor ailments.
“[Saka] was feeling a bit sick and as well we have Fabio [Vieira] who we have to give minutes. It was great opportunity [for us] and then we had a little issue with Gabi Martinelli as well, he had a slight cut on his foot and we have to wait and see how he is,” Arteta said.
Along with updates on Saka and Martinelli, Arteta also discussed the return of Thomas Partey from injury. The midfielder garnered his first minutes since early October during the win on Monday night, playing 25 minutes.
“Today obviously Thomas is available now to play a certain number of minutes,” said Arteta. “He needs to build that, because it was his first minutes after four months which is a long time. And then, like everybody, you need to have the right to earn the minutes.”
Arsenal fans will be hoping all three players will be fit and available for this weekend’s crucial clash with London neighbours Brentford at the Emirates Stadium.
