Arsenal continue to defy expectations this season as they chase down a first Premier League title since 2004 heading into the final nine games of the 2022/23 campaign
Mikel Arteta has revealed the extent of issues facing Arsenal ahead of their brilliant 4-1 win against Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners maintained their eight-point lead at the top of the Premier League table ahead of reigning champions Manchester City.
Speaking after the win against Leeds, Arteta detailed the issues his squad were facing in their preparations for the return to Premier League action. The Arsenal boss said: "Yeah [sickness bug in the squad] and other issues with international players and a player that we had here.
"It happens. It was part of the context of the game. We used in the right way. Players are so willing to step up and play in any context and it’s great," he added.
Bukayo Saka was left out of the starting XI against Leeds after struggling with illness earlier this week after Arteta explained his decision to start Jesus. Before kick-off, the Spaniard said: "He [Saka] wasn’t able to train yesterday as he wasn’t well but today he feels a little bit better, so we’ve put Gabby [Jesus] in.
"He [Jesus] brings a lot of energy, quality, movement & chaos. He’s a player we’ve been missing & it’s good to have him back.”
Jesus rewarded his manager with two goals in the game as he continues to build up his match fitness and sharpness ahead of a crucial run of fixtures. William Saliba is yet to return to action as he recovers from a back injury, whilst Takehiro Tomiyasu's absence leaves just Ben White as the club's only senior right-back.