Arsenal FC v Southampton FC - Premier League
Gabriel has missed Arsenal’s last three matches (Getty)
Mikel Arteta says Gabriel Magalhaes is in contention to be available for Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Everton on Saturday.
The Brazilian defender has missed Arsenal’s last three matches after being forced off at half time in the 5-2 victory against West Ham on November 30.
Earlier this week, Arteta confirmed that Gabriel is suffering from a ‘muscular injury’ and indicated that Arsenal’s busy schedule has made it difficult for the 26-year-old to recover quickly.
However, during his press conference on Friday, Arteta indicated that Gabriel is on the verge of making a return, with Riccardo also working his way back to fitness.
‘There is a possibility one of them to be available,’ Arteta said.
‘He trained today and we will see tomorrow.’
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Asked if he needs to be cautious with Calafiori’s return, Arteta said: ‘We’re just respecting the times that the medical department has set and then we’ll just monitor his evolution every single day.
‘We understand that he’s not fully ready yet but he’s getting very close now.’
Arsenal have won all but one of their last six games in all competitions ahead of their clash with Everton on Saturday.
Arteta’s side currently sit third in the Premier League, six points behind leaders Liverpool who have a game in hand.
Everton, meanwhile, ended their run of five games without a win with a 4-0 victory at home to Wolves on December 4.
Sean Dyche’s side have had extra time to recover for their trip to the Emirates Stadium this weekend as their Merseyside derby against Liverpool at Goodison Park was postponed last Saturday due to Storm Darragh.
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