Arsenal supporters can often find themselves led into a false sense of security ahead of big matches in the league. Especially immediately after international breaks where injuries surface with little detail provided.
Arsenal face Liverpool this weekend in a match that could raise the Gunners above the Reds should they manage a rare league win at Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp went into the international break with just Roberto Firmino confirmed to be missing who has suffered from a “serious hamstring injury” which meant Diogo Jota was the likely replacement in the middle. However, the break brought with it multiple cases of bad news for the German coach’s squad.
Firstly, Sadio Mane was substituted early in Senegal’s 1-1 draw with Togo. The winger had to return to the club to be assessed and so far, no further information has surfaced regarding his availability besides the Senegal coach stating the issue was not a serious as first thought.
“Yes, the exit of Sadio Mane destabilised us," he told reporters after the game.
"He is an important player for the team, we took him off as a precaution and there is nothing serious.”
This was a similar situation for Jordan Henderson who left the England camp as a precaution but Southgate did hint that the midfielder may miss some action.
“We’ve scanned them [Jordan Henderson and Jack Grealish]. There is small injuries on the scans so we just hope that they’re not going to miss too much football from here on.”
Lastly, Andrew Robertson was substituted by Steve Clarke after suffering what looked to be a hamstring injury in the 2-0 win over Denmark qualifying them for a World Cup play-off place.
However, despite all of the news regarding injuries with Naby Keita and James Milner also suffering from their own reported problems, Arsenal fans should remain grounded.
Time after time has news of injuries for the opponent surfaced prior to a big game. Harry Kane famously returned on numerous occasions to score in north London derbies despite suggestions he was a doubt.
Kevin De Bruyne too has been reported doubtful for clashes with Manchester City only to show up and perform brilliantly as he tends to do so.
With the word, ‘precaution’ being used in both the cases of Mane and Henderson, Arsenal fans should go into the match expecting both the feature.
No matter, the game with or without the aforementioned Liverpool players is going to be a tough one for Arsenal. The Gunners and Mikel Arteta need to prepare to expect a full strength and fully motivated Liverpool side.
Coming off the back of a ten-match unbeaten run, the trip to Anfield presents Arteta with his biggest test since the first win of the run over Norwich in September. The defence has impressed but chances, however few are created on Merseyside, must be taken. It is set to be an intriguing battle.
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