Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard both appear to be in contention for Sunday’s clash with Newcastle after returning to training this morning.
Rice, who missed the 2-2 draw with Liverpool due to a minor hamstring strain, has been spotted taking part in a session held at the Emirates – one that is open to season ticket holders. BBC Sport had reported concerns over the England international’s fitness, but his involvement suggests he’s on track to be available.
Trossard, who limped off at Anfield holding the back of his left leg, is also present and participating. The Belgian’s return would be another timely boost for Mikel Arteta, particularly in light of Mikel Merino’s suspension following his red card on Merseyside.
Infurthergoodnews,KaiHavertzwasalsoinvolvedintraining.TheGermanyinternationalhasmadeswiftprogressinhisrecoveryfromhamstringsurgeryandnowlookstobeincontentionforthefinaltwogamesoftheseason.
MikelArtetahintedafewweeksagothatthestrikercouldreturnbeforetheendofthecampaign,althoughatthetime,ArsenalwerestillhopefulofreachingtheChampionsLeaguefinal.Withthatnowoffthetable,there’sunderstandablylessurgency —buthisreturnisawelcomeboostnonetheless.
Arsenal need to avoid defeat against Newcastle to ensure they head into the final weekend with second place still in their own hands. A point or better would also mathematically guarantee Champions League football for a fourth consecutive season.