ARSTOT: Mikel Arteta delivered a cryptic update on Arsenal’s injured players ahead of this weekend’s match with Tottenham.
The Gunners will be out for revenge against Spurs, who beat them to a top-four spot last season.
Arsenal has several injury concerns in recent weeks. Oleksandr Zinchenko is working on his fitness at the club’s London Colney base after missing the 3-0 win over Brentford before the international break. Thomas Partey and Kieran Tierney both picked up injuries while away with Ghana and Scotland.
All three were doubtful for Saturday’s match at the Emirates Stadium, but Arteta kept his cards close to his chest in his pre-match press conference.
Arteta said Partey, Tierney, and Zinchenko are in Arsenal’s matchday squad.
Tierney left Scotland’s recent win over Ireland due to concussion protocols. Arteta praised the club’s and Scotland’s communication after the injury.
Spaniard: “We want what’s best for the player. Protect the player’s welfare, and make sure he’s ready to play for his country and club. Honest, transparent communication is key. That’s true of Scotland.”
Arteta’s cool response echoed Conte’s pregame comments. Conte said of Tottenham’s key players: “I don’t want to discuss the injury because I don’t want to help Arsenal, right?
“We’ll face physical problems, and we’ve just started a 13-game stretch in 43 days.
“If we take big risks and lose players for the rest of the games, it will be a disaster. To play every three days, I need the whole squad, and we try to make the best decision together.”
