Mikel Arteta said he expects Vitkor Gyokeres and Mikel Merino to be fine after the pair suffered head injuries during Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Athletic Club.
Gyokeres was left bloodied by a clash of heads with Gabriel in the first half and had to be bandaged up, with Arsenal medical staff rushing onto the pitch to treat the Swede as blood poured from the back of his head
The pair climbed to meet Declan Rice's inswinging free kick midway through the first half, but as Gyokeres made contact with the ball, Gabriel made contact with the back of the striker's head.
Gyokeres continued before being replaced by Leandro Trossard in the 64th minute.
Merino, meanwhile, was okay to continue after also suffering a clash of heads and Arteta says he has no concerns about whether either player will be fit for Sunday’s clash with Manchester City.
“I think they are good. I haven’t spoken to them but I think they’re all good,” Arteta said in his post-match press conference.
Arteta’s substitutes sealed a hard-fought three points, as Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard scored off the bench to ensure Arsenal made a winning start to their Champions League campaign.
The Arsenal boss praised the impact of Martinelli and Trossard, saying it was important they felt connected to the team.
“Something that we always discuss is that the finishers have to impact the game, and Gabi and Leo came on to make the difference for the team,” Arteta said.
Arsenal return to Premier League action at home to Manchester City on Sunday, with Arteta hoping to be able to call upon Gyokeres and Merino amid a growing injury list.
