Martinelli returns to Arsenal training just FOUR days after injuring ankle

  /  autty

Arsenal have been handed a boost ahead of Thursday's game against Crystal Palace after Gabriel Martinelli returned to training today.

The Brazilian striker was left in tears before Saturday's FA Cup third round win against Newcastle after having to withdraw from the starting line-up after picking up an ankle injury in the warm-up.

But a scan on Tuesday revealed no lasting damage and the 19-year-old was videoed back in training on Wednesday - to the relief of Gunners fans who feared the worst again for the teenager.

Martinelli missed six months of 2020 after a serious knee injury and only returned to action against Everton on December 19.

After Saturday's game, Arteta admitted he was upset that the teenager's luck had seemingly turned again.

'I am gutted. I was in my office before the game and one of the coaches came in and said that Gabi hurt himself, that he twisted his ankle,' Arteta said.

'I went to the medical room and he was in tears. It didn't look good. He was in a lot of pain and we're going to have to see how he is.

'He was in pain so I imagine we're not going to have good news with him.'

Yet Martinelli was moving freely in training today and could even make the matchday squad for the Palace clash at the Emirates.

Arsenal are looking to close the gap on those above them - including sixth-placed Tottenham, who are six points superior - with three points, and host Newcastle again on Monday night, this time in the league.

Related: Arsenal Arsenal U21 Arteta Martinelli
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