Alexandre Lacazette is in a race against time to be fit for Arsenal's opening game of the new Premier League season against Newcastle United.
The Frenchman has not featured for the Gunners since he limped out of Arsenal's Emirates Cup clash against his former clu Lyon last weekend, with the striker seen with a protective boot on his left leg afterwards.
He has since been involved in training this week, but he did not travel with the squad to face Barcelona this evening (Sunday).
As such, he is still considered a doubt for next weekend's game at St James' Park, with Unai Emery's men travelling to the north east to face Steve Bruce's side in their opening league fixture of the new campaign.
But Emery played down any fears over a long-term absence for Lacazette when speaking after the Emirates Cup clash.
"We are thinking it is not important," he said of the injury.
"He decided with the doctor and with me, he's better not to risk it. He tried to continue playing but I think it was better in this position to not take risk and the doctor said to me he's going to check, but we're thinking it is not important."
And now, Emery has provided a fresh update on the striker's fitness, and whether he is likely to be fit in time to face the Magpies.
"Hopefully he will be ready for the match against Newcastle," the Spaniard said.
"The doctors are optimistic and we are going to wait. The next days are going to be important if he can progress with his injury. If he is OK for Sunday, perfect, if not, for the next [match].
