Arsenal are boosted by the return of Bukayo Saka for today’s crunch Premier League clash with Newcastle.
The England winger has been battling an Achilles injury and has not featured at all since the Carabao Cup final defeat by Manchester City at Wembley last month.
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Saka has stepped up his recovery this week, though, with Mikel Arteta confirming in Friday’s pre-match press conference that the Arsenal No7 is set to be named in the matchday squad to face Newcastle.
"Bukayo is probably going to be in the squad, so good news,” the Gunners boss said.
Although Saka is now available again, he does not come straight back into the Arsenal starting lineup this evening.
Riccardo Calafiori is not risked and the Newcastle game comes too soon for Jurrien Timber, who is close to returning from a groin injury.
Mikel Merino is said to be “pushing every boundary” in his bid to get back following foot surgery, but is not in contention at this stage.
“[Calafiori] probably in the squad as well,” Arteta said on Friday. “Jurrien, not in the squad.”
Asked if Merino could yet play a part in the title run-in, he replied: “It's a bit premature to say that.
“He's evolving really well. He's really pushing every boundary that he possibly can. But it's a bit early to answer that question.”
Arteta has kept faith with the attacking formula that was largely a success against City last weekend, even if the Gunners were poor at converting their chances.
Kai Havertz is again leading the attack over Viktor Gyokeres, and Eberechi Eze is operating off the left wing.
Martin Odegaard returned from a knee injury at the Etihad Stadium continues at No10 after a clear midweek.
With Manchester City in FA Cup semi-final action against Southampton at Wembley, Arsenal have the chance to go three points clear at the top of the Premier League table with victory over Newcastle this evening.
Confirmed team news
Arsenal XI: Raya, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie, Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard, Madueke, Eze, Havertz.
Substitutes: Arrizabalaga, Lewis-Skelly, Mosquera, Saka, Martinelli, Trossard, Dowman, Gyokeres, Jesus.
