Arsenal Injury Update: Eddie Nketiah Ruled Out, Gabriel Jesus in Line For Starting Role

Mikel Arteta has provided the latest Arsenal injury update ahead of his side’s second-leg tie against Sporting Lisbon, and the ankle problems rumble on for Eddie Nketiah who is set to miss out once more. 

The Arsenal striker has deputised to great effect in the absence of Gabriel Jesus, scoring six goals since the resumption of club football after the World Cup including a crucial brace against Manchester United to keep the Gunners in pole position.

After suffering a heavy blow to ankle in the 4-0 drubbing of Everton last month, the 23-year-old has missed the last three games which has allowed Arteta to experiment with a front three comprised entirely of wingers.

It now looks as if he will remain sidelined for at least the next few games after Arteta gave an Arsenal injury update ahead of Thursday’s Europa League return leg in North London. The Spaniard said:  “It’s getting better. He’s still in the boot. He’s still a few weeks away and we need to be patient.

“It was a nasty injury and he has a big challenge ahead of him. Thank God it’s not as bad as it could have been.”

Nketiah on Instagram. Has restarted Gym work. pic.twitter.com/bbT9WWahrh

— Doc (@karthikadhaigal) March 13, 2023

Fortunately, it isn’t all doom and gloom in terms of attacking options after the Gunners welcomed back Gabriel Jesus after three months on the sidelines, following a knee injury sustained while on international duty with Brazil.

The marquee summer made a late cameo against Fulham as the Premier League leaders restored their five-point cushion at the summit, much to the delight of the travelling supporters who could be heard roaring him onto the pitch.

Elsewhere, both Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli have proven effective operators in the central role, and could be poised to do so once more in midweek with Jesus still returning to full fitness.