Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal will be without two key players ahead of Sunday’s Premier League London derby against West Ham United, according to arsenalnews.co.uk.
The Gunners sit on 76 points from 35 matches, holding a five-point lead over second-placed Manchester City, who also have a game in hand against Crystal Palace.
City are in action first this weekend, facing Brentford at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday. Arsenal will be hoping for a favourable result from that match before they take on West Ham.
Arsenal themselves travel to the London Stadium for a potentially decisive derby, but Arteta has already ruled out two first-team players from contention.
Mikel Merino has been out since the winter due to a foot injury. While he has resumed light individual training, Arteta suggested the Spaniard is not yet ready to return this weekend.
Jurrien Timber is in a similar situation after suffering a groin injury during the home clash with Everton last month.
Arteta said on the duo, “No chance for the weekend. There’s still a fair bit to do [in their recoveries]. Everything has to be so smooth and quick if they want to have a chance to play any minutes [this season].”
Arsenal’s title hopes received a boost following Manchester City’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Everton earlier in the week, where Pep Guardiola’s side fought back from 3-1 down to salvage a point.
The Premier League title race remains in Arsenal’s hands, with three wins potentially enough to secure the crown.
However, West Ham have often proven difficult opponents, even though Arsenal have enjoyed heavy wins in recent visits to east London, including 5-2 and 6-0 victories at the London Stadium.
This time, the context is different, with West Ham battling to avoid relegation. The Hammers are also unbeaten in their last six home matches, recording three wins and three draws.
Given the tight schedule, Arteta may opt to stick with a settled lineup for a third consecutive game across all competitions, especially with a four-day gap following their Champions League semi-final second leg.
