Evening all. I hope you are all enjoying the sunshine.
Just a quick one from me this evening to talk about a few bits and pieces ahead of Sunday’s game against Newcastle.
First of all we got the good news from open training this morning that Kai Havertz has returned. He took a full part in the session at the Emirates in front a few thousands fans and looked sharp by all accounts.
He also got the traditional welcome back from his team-mates, who all lined up to smack him on the back as he ran through the tunnel they had created for him.
I highly doubt Havertz will be considered for a starting spot against Newcastle, but you would at least think he has a chance of possibly getting 20 minutes or so if the bench.
We also saw Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard and Jorginho in full training which was certainly a bit of a surprise after Rice missed the trip to Liverpool and Trossard limped off late on at Anfield clutching his hamstring.
We’ll hear from Mikel Arteta on Friday as to whether both will be involved at the weekend, but you would imagine they will given there is quite a bit resting on the result.
Elsewhere I have a bit of news to give you in terms of squad numbers for the 2025/26 season.
David Raya will be taking the No.1 shirt, having worn 22 since arriving at the club and Ethan Nwaneri will be taking the 22 shirt that Raya has vacated.
As far as I’m aware, those are the only two changes. I’m glad that Myles Lewis-Skelly is sticking with the No.49.
He is well aware of the significance of that number when it comes to Arsenal so did not want to change, which is handy for fans as it means they don’t have to make up a new song for him.
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