(Reuters) – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has indicated that Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka are likely to be included in the squad for the upcoming match against Brentford on Saturday. The two forwards were substituted during Monday’s 6-0 victory over Sheffield United, with Martinelli picking up a cut and Saka feeling unwell.
Arteta expressed optimism about their availability, stating, “We’re pretty positive that hopefully they can be part of that. But we’ll have to see.”
The Gunners are currently sitting in third place in the Premier League standings with 61 points, just two points behind league leaders Liverpool. Liverpool will be facing off against second-placed Manchester City on Sunday.
In terms of their title rivals, Arteta emphasized the importance of Arsenal focusing on maintaining their own momentum rather than being preoccupied with the outcomes of other teams. He said, “We just have to focus on our game, try to win and then on Sunday it’s a game that should be beautiful to watch for any supporter.”
“I will enjoy watching two of the best teams in Europe. I will sit there with my kids and enjoy the match,” Arteta added.
When Arsenal faced Brentford at home in November, the match proved to be a tough challenge, with Kai Havertz eventually securing a late winner for the Gunners in the 89th minute. Brentford currently occupies the 15th spot in the league with 26 points.
Arteta acknowledged the threat posed by Brentford, saying, “We know the demands we have and what Brentford will ask of us to win the game… we always suffer against Brentford.”
(Reporting by Chiranjit Ojha in Bengaluru; Editing by Toby Davis)
