Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the situation of Reiss Nelson at Arsenal.
The 21-year-old has not played since the Gunners' 3-0 victory away at Molde, at has not even been involved in a squad since being the 19th man for the North London Derby defeat to Tottenham on December 6th.
It was rumoured that this was because Arsenal were trying to save him for a move away ahead of the January transfer window which opens tomorrow.
But speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of his side's Premier League clash with West Brom, Mikel Arteta revealed that this is not the case.
"He had a little niggle he’s not been 100%. He’s had a muscular issue," he said.
"He’s been in and out of training, he’s not been 100%. It’s a shame because I felt he was getting into his performance levels, he started to have some really good games and he was starting to build that momentum.
"This little injury set him back a little bit. But I think he’s been much better."
When pressed on whether Nelson would still be leaving in January Arteta admitted he could see why people might think that was the case. However, he was also quick to reveal that any departure is unlikely.
"No. Only it’s my mistake then not clarify the situation what is happening," he added.
"But yeah, he’s not been 100% fit. That’s the reason why he’s been out and he’s not been featuring with the squad."
Reiss Nelson will be hoping to get back amongst the Arsenal side very soon after Mikel Arteta showed that he is not afraid to trust his young players.
Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Gabriel Martinelli all started both of the Gunners' back-to-back wins over Chelsea and Brighton, and will be looking to continue their good run against West Brom on Saturday.
