Gabriel and Calafiori to return to Arsenal squad to face Fulham, says Arteta

Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel Magalhaes missed out on their side's 2-0 win over Manchester United on Wednesday night, but are expected to be back in the squad as Arsenal pay a visit to Fulham at Craven Cottage, as revealed by manager Mikel Arteta.

Both defenders suffered injuries in the match against West Ham at the weekend. The Brazil international was replaced at the end of the first period after being hit in the face by Hammers goalkeeper Fabianski as he tried to head the ball, whereas the former Bologna player was forced off after sustaining a blow ten minutes into the second half.

"With Gabi, it would've been a big risk to play him today because he felt something against West Ham," Arteta said after securing a huge victory against Amorim. "Sunday is a possibility, same with Ricci [Calafiori] as well," he added ahead of Sunday's clash at Fulham.

The Gunners did not feel the absence of the injured pair against the Red Devils as Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko successfully filled in in defence. Arteta heaped praise on the duo, as he said: "Big credit to Jakub and Alex. It's the first start for Jakub after a long time. You have to be strong against this kind of opposition and front players. The same as Alex and they did magnificently well. Great. We trust them".

 

December 5, 2024