Arsenal go into Saturday’s clash against Newcastle with a question mark over the centre back pair Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny. They both sat out Arsenal’s previous game against Liverpool on Monday andArsene Wenger has provided an updated on the two: “Mertesacker is still sick and we will know more about Koscielny today.
“He might have a test on his back today and I will certainly know more tomorrow morning. The less likely to be fit is Mertesacker.”
Wenger admitted he wants the pair to be back in action, but is realistic in his hopes: “I would like them to be available but that’s part of the season, you can’t complain about that.”
Without a doubt, if the duo miss the game, it creates a huge dent in confidence, especially after Calum Chambers’ shaky performance against Liverpool. But as Wenger said, it is part and parcel of the season and they will have to make do with the players available.
Arsenal have also been without Jack Wilshere, Danny Welbeck and Tomas Rosicky so far this season. With the experienced Czech being the furthest away from full fitness, but the two England international’s should be back after the international break, according to Wenger.
“Danny Welbeck is progressing well. He should be available, if all goes well, after the international break.
“Jack Wilshere is just behind Welbeck, maybe one week after the international break he will certainly come back into full training.”
Arsene talked about his squad’s lackluster start to the campaign and if they are physically ready: “I think we are ready to play 90 minutes but maybe it’s normal as well that after two or three games, you are not completely at 100 per cent.
“That comes slowly. We have started late and as well some players, like Alexis, have come in on August 3 and are not completely there.”
Hopefully, Arsenal prove the doubters wrong and kickstart their campaign with a convincing victory at St. James’ Park. Without a doubt, it hasn’t been a great start to the season but it could have been worse. Arsenal have a lot more to show this campaign and the supporters will be hopeful that will come around sooner rather than later.
