Mikel Arteta has spoken out about being without key defensive duo William Saliba and Oleksandr Zinchenko for the rest of the season after reports suggested the pair were both ruled out for the remaining three league games as the Gunners look to keep tabs on Manchester City at the top of the league.
Having moved to within one point of the leaders once more it is all Arsenal can do to remain in the mix as the final push approaches. It is a visit from high-flying Brighton next up at the Emirates Stadium, though the Seagulls were heavily beaten by Everton in a shock defeat on Monday last time out.
Arsenal were able to keep their title hopes alive by fighting past Newcastle in an entertaining and hard-fought contest at St James' Park on Sunday but still know Manchester City could be four points ahead by the time they kick off at 4:30pm. To make matters worse, Arteta will have to do at least some of it without two of his keystones.
READ MORE: Arsenal reach new 17-year transfer high before Edu’s biggest summer spree aiming to impress
Saliba, who hasn't played since the Sporting CP second leg Europa League tie, has left a gaping hole in defence with Jakub Kiwior coming in to replace Rob Holding after his recent struggles. The Frenchman had been hopeful of making a return before the final day match against Wolves but The Athletic reported it wouldn't be possible.
Arteta played it cool, though, saying: "We have another session tomorrow before the Brighton game. We’re trying to get players back before that day. With William it’s for sure he’s not gonna be fit for this game and we’re doubting him for next game."
The Spanish manager had previously put doubt in the minds of fans by playing down his recovery in the weeks leading up to the game. It is not just Saliba that will have to watch on as his teammates attempt to push Manchester City all the way. Oleksandr Zinchenko is also expected to be out but Arteta refused to rule him out for the rest of the games.
The Ukrainian full-back was taken off against Newcastle with what appeared to be a tactical move but it has since been revealed that it was worse than that. "No," was his response when asked if he could confirm the reports.
Mohamed Elneny and Takehiro Tomiyasu are also out until the end of the season meaning Arteta is working with three less players for a crucial stage of the run-in.
READ NEXT:
Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke three transfers away from completing $1bn turnaround
Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke can complete double $100m transfer swoop after major outgoing
Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke could hold key to seven-figure Rangers transfer
Mikel Arteta sends Stan Kroenke clear $144m Arsenal transfer task with Newcastle warning
Gabriel Martinelli fires sharp demand after Arsenal win at Newcastle United
