Arsenal are still dealing with a number of injury issues ahead of their Premier League clash with Everton tonight.
The Gunners welcomed back William Saliba from an ankle problem against Wolves last weekend but Gabriel Magalhaes remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a thigh injury.
Ben White has enjoyed a return to form in recent weeks but became the latest player to be struck down with injury after limping off clutching his hamstring in the first half last Saturday.
White is now set for another period on the sidelines, joining Gabriel, Cristhian Mosquera and Kai Havertz who has not featured since the opening game of the season.
Havertz has suffered a minor setback having undergone knee surgery in August with his return now pushed back until mid-January at the earliest.
There was also concern for Martin Zubimendi after he came off in the second-half of that nervy 2-1 win over Wolves. The Spain international missed training on Tuesday but Mikel Arteta eased any fears over his availability on Friday.
Riccardo Calafiori is also available again after serving a suspension.
Manchester City could find themselves top of the Premier League by the time Arsenal kick off with Pep Guardiola’s side hosting West Ham United this afternoon at 3pm.
After that nervy showing at home to the side hopelessly stranded at the bottom of the league last time out, this will be another huge test of Arsenal’s title credentials.
Arsenal XI to face Everton – Metro prediction
While there are still injuries lingering, Arteta is able to call upon what he would probably consider his first choice XI with the exception of Piero Hincapie starting over Gabriel at the back.
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It is up front where Arteta’s biggest dilemma is. Gyokeres drew another blank after returning to the starting XI against Wolves last time out with the Swede goalless since returning from a hamstring injury in November.
Mikel Merino, who scored twice and provided three assists during Gyokeres’ spell out, could be an ideal option against David Moyes’ side.
Everton vs Arsenal kick-off time, TV channel and live stream
Everton vs Arsenal kicks off at 8pm on Saturday 20 December.
You can watch the match live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event with streaming also available through the Sky Go app and NOW TV for subscribers.
