Mikel Arteta on Kieran Tierney
Image credit: Getty Images
Former Arsenal winger Jermaine Pennant has cast doubt on one player who he believes does not have the trust of Mikel Arteta, suggesting the player’s limited involvement this season indicates a lack of faith from the manager.
Arsenal, currently third in the Premier League standings, are chasing their first league title since 2004. They trail Chelsea by two points and league leaders Liverpool by six, with Liverpool holding a game in hand.
The Gunners’ attacking options have been stretched thin following Bukayo Saka’s injury, which is expected to sideline him until February. Gabriel Martinelli was deployed on the right wing during Arsenal’s recent win against Crystal Palace, while Raheem Sterling, who is on loan from Chelsea, has also been unavailable due to a knee injury.
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Raheem Sterling
Raheem Sterling (Image credit: Getty Images)
Speaking to Instant Casino, Pennant expressed scepticism about Sterling’s role in the team, stating: “It’s clear to me that Mikel Arteta doesn’t trust Raheem Sterling. Against Everton, they needed some spark to open the door, and he was left on the bench. He’s getting overlooked for younger talent. There is a great player in there, of course, but he isn’t getting any younger.
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“I wouldn’t go as far as to say he’ll have his contract terminated because of the respect and service he’s given in the Premier League, but I don’t think he’ll be seen in an Arsenal shirt too often again.”
Sterling’s spell at Arsenal has been marred by injuries, with the 29-year-old now facing another setback ahead of the festive fixtures. Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Ipswich Town, Arteta confirmed Sterling’s absence.
“He’s going to be out for weeks,” Mikel Arteta said. “He needs some further testing tomorrow to understand the extent of the injury. It’s his knee, and we have to wait another 24 hours, but unfortunately, he’s going to be out for a while.”
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