Arsenal news as Mikel Arteta looks to build rhythm and confidence into his team ahead of a key run of games after the international break starting away to Everton
It feels like a lot more than just two weeks since Mikel Arteta's Arsenal were last in action. Following the dramatic nature of their 3-1 win over Manchester United, the fortnight of international matches took on an even more background setting for the football world.
Now, with demons of the past to face up to and set straight, the Spaniard will be keen to ensure his side pick up where they left off. It was the atmosphere and controversy of a late afternoon summer's day at the Emirates Stadium plus some key internal grit, that got the Gunners across the line against their old enemy but the boss will now be after improved performances.
Luckily for Arteta there are very few issues for him to have to deal with. Oleksandr Zinchenko returned to the team against United, his first start of the season, whilst Gabriel Magalhaes' appearance seemed to settle the backline. The Brazilian allowed Ben White to return to his favoured spot at right-back and order resumed.
Gabriel was at the centre of some mid-international break fitness concerns after he was the subject of a high challenge whilst playing for Brazil. The 25-year-old was later spotted with an ice pack on his leg but fears were put to one side when he started his second game in a row against Bolivia.
Whilst Saka is fit, teammate Thomas Partey remains out. He was left out of Ghana's squad for the recent fixtures with a groin issue. Partey also had to sit out the win over United, watching on from the sidelines in north London instead.
"He’s still a few weeks away. He’s got a muscle injury. He’s progressing well," Arteta said of his key defensive midfielder. Mohamed Elneny is also recovering, in his case from a long-term injury, but is getting closer to a return. The Egyptian was pictured back in training at London Colney earlier this week and is working on building up sharpness.
Goalkeepers: Aaron Ramsdale, David Raya
Defenders: Ben White, Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Jakub Kiwior
Midfielders: Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Fabio Vieira, Emile Smith Rowe, Jorginho
Attackers: Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, Eddie Nketiah, Reiss Nelson