Arsenal get huge injury boost before Athletic Bilbao game. Two key players return to training just in time for the Emirates Cup showdown.
Key players back as Arsenal take on Bilbao
Arsenal’s are getting ready for Saturday’s meeting with Athletic Bilbao. They have been lifted by the sight of Riccardo Calafiori and Kai Havertz back in full training.
The **Gunners**are looking to get their fourth straight win in this pre-season. The timing could not be better after recent setbacks. Mikel Arteta’s men head into the weekend looking to bounce back from defeats against Tottenham and Villarreal. The latter ended in a poor 3-2 loss midweek. That game did at least mark the return of Gabriel Magalhaes and Jurrien Timber from long injury spells. But, Calafiori and Havertz missed that fixture.
Calafiori’s knock came during the pre-season tour in Asia against Newcastle. Meanwhile, Havertz was sidelined with a fresh issue. Though, that opened the door for Viktor Gyokeres to lead the line against Villarreal.
Both players now look set to play against Bilbao. Their availability provides depth and greater choice. Calafiori can play left back or left centre back, and Havertz gives Arteta more attacking options.
Trossard doubt and possible new line-up
Trossard remains a doubt for today’s game. The Belgian picked up a groin issue in the North London derby. He did not train on Friday which likely rules him out of facing Bilbao. Gabriel Jesus is still sidelined with a long-term ACL injury from January. That said, it leaves Arteta to change his forward line once again on the weekend.
The game could see all new signings in the starting IX for the first time. Two key names are returning and the Emirates crowd is behind them. Arsenal will be eager to give a good fight before the PL begins.
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