Arsenal worry over injury concerns ahead of Man United clash

Arsenal enter a massive match against Manchester United on Sunday with new injury concerns. Both Martin Ødegaard and Aaron Ramsdale picked up minor injuries during the club’s victory against Aston Villa midweek. 

Ødegaard suffered an ankle problem after receiving a heavy challenge from Villa midfielder John McGinn. Goalkeeper Ramsdale appeared to suffer a tweaked hamstring late on in the game.

After picking up the injury, the Norwegian international came off. Cameras later picked up an ice pack around the weary ankle on the bench. Ramsdale plugged on, remaining between the posts until the end of the match.

Arsenal injury concerns

Speaking during his usual Friday press conference, Gunners manager Mikel Arteta gave updates on the duo. 

“Those two are being assessed, we will see more tomorrow,” said Arteta.  “Hopefully they will be able to train with the team.”

News was not, however, as hopeful for defender Alexander Zinchenko. The Ukrainian is a frequent name among the Arsenal injury concerns. He missed both of Arsenal’s two previous games after picking up a knee injury during warm-ups against Fulham.

“Unfortunately with Alex that’s still not the case. He missed two games and has not been able to train with the team yet… Unfortunately, that is the situation that we have.”

Arsenal also have two long-term injuries to deal with. Mohamed Elneny and Thomas Partey could still be on the sidelines for some time. However, the Ghanian should be fit and available sooner. 

“With Mo it’s probably a little bit easier and we are talking months. With Thomas, hopefully we are talking with weeks or even shorter than that I hope.”

Arsenal does have a little depth in these positions where there are injury concerns. Sambi Lokonga started in place of Partey and Elneny on Wednesday and should see more match time this weekend. While Scotland international Kieran Tierney provides cover for Zinchenko on the left side of defense.

Regardless of who is available, Arsenal continues to roll along in the Premier League. The North London outfit is the only side with a perfect record after five games in league play.

The Gunners will try to keep that run in tact at Old Trafford on Sunday. Mikel Arteta and company take on a Manchester United side on a run of three-straight wins after a dismal start to the campaign.

PHOTO: IMAGO