Premier League club Arsenal return to the league action to take on Wolverhampton Wanderers in a must-win clash for Gunners boss Mikel Arteta. The Gunners’ last two fixtures in the Premier League ended in a 3-0 defeat against Aston Villa and a disappointing goalless draw against Leeds.
They however returned to winning ways having beat Norwegian side Molde on Thursday in their Europa League Group-stage encounter. They take on fearless Wolves at the Emirates stadium eager to return to Premier League winning ways as they look to restore some lost confidence and morale.
The Gunners had a lackluster performance in the first half against Molde, but turned up in style and scored three second-half goals to secure victory over their Norwegian opponents. Goals from Nicolas Pepe, starlet Folarin Balogun, and Reiss Nelson helped the London club secure the pressure-relieving win.
Ahead of their home game against Wolves, here is the team news.
David Luiz
Luiz sustained an injury against Molde in their 3-0 win and will be a big miss for Arteta at the weekend. The extent of the injury is not yet known, but the coach said that the defender’s substitution in the second half was more of a precaution.
Arteta hopes Luiz would be fit for the clash.
Willian
Willian was also forced off at half-time but in the game at Leeds on Sunday. His withdrawal however wasn’t for tactical reasons as he played with a slight jiggle in the opening 45 minutes. Arteta said it is a muscle problem but hopes he doesn’t stay out for long.
BukayoSaka
Saka was in action for England over the international break three times and picked up a knock in their game. He isn’t going to be risked, but if fit, he will play.
Thomas Partey
Partey was subbed off against Villa after also sustaining a knock. He didn’t join up with the Ghana squad for the international break but stayed behind to regain fitness. He missed the Leeds and Molde games and will also likely miss the one against Wolves.
Mohamed Elneny
The Egyptian midfielder was absent for the Gunners’ last two games having been confirmed to have contracted the coronavirus. He then needed to self-isolate and missed Egypt’s games at the international break. He may return against Wolves.