Early Arsenal team news: Arteta gives updates on Saka and Rice

Early Arsenal team news: Arteta gives updates on Saka and Rice

Mikel Arteta has provided an update on his Arsenal squad ahead of tomorrow’s Champions League quarter-final against Sporting CP.

Arsenal welcome the Portuguese side to the Emirates for the second leg of their last-eight tie.

Kai Havertz’s late goal in Lisbon earned Arsenal a 1-0 win in the first meeting, as the Gunners look to progress to the semi-finals for the second consecutive campaign.

Arsenal are set to be without Bukayo Saka for the clash, though Arteta has suggested the winger could return for this weekend’s crucial Premier League clash at Manchester City. Saka missed the club’s 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth at the weekend.

“It was something he had been carrying for a while,” Arteta said at his pre-match press conference.

“It was an Achilles issue. No [setback], there is progression. Hopefully, it’s a matter of days and not weeks.

“But he has to see how he responds when he increases his load.”

Declan Rice is also a doubt. The midfielder landed awkwardly against Bournemouth on Sunday and will require a late fitness test.

“He has played a lot of games, and that is part of the issue,” Arteta said on the midfielder’s condition.

“He is going to try to do everything he possibly can to be with us tomorrow evening. That’s for sure.”

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