Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has revealed Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli have not trained this week but could still make their returns from respective injuries at Manchester City on Sunday.
Both wingers missed out on representing their countries during the recent international break, prompting fears as to whether they would be fit to face the reigning Premier League champions.
Martinelli’s last outing for Arsenal came at the start of March when he left the pitch early during their 6-0 thumping of Sheffield United. His injury then was described as a minor cut to the foot, but he remained out of action for following wins against Brentford and Porto.
Saka, meanwhile, pulled out of England duty after arriving to their St George’s Park training base with a muscle problem.
Ahead of Sunday’s trip to Man City, Arteta was asked about the availability of the duo plus centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes, who was also sidelined over the international break.
“There is a chance [they could play]. They haven’t trained. Tomorrow we have another session, but there is a chance,” he said.
Arsenal will be hoping to have as many players fit as possible as they head to the Etihad Stadium this weekend for what could be their biggest fixture of the season. The Gunners could end the weekend four points clear of Man City and three ahead of Liverpool if results go their way.
Speaking on the game, Arteta said: “I have full belief and trust in my players and what we’re trying to do. It’s something that we have to show on the pitch.
“It’s a massive game for both teams. It will give us a huge boost again if we go there and win it. Still there is a long way after to make the ground to win it.”
Arsenal’s last victory at the Etihad came in January 2015, with Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud scoring in a 2-0 victory.
