There’s team news from two Premier League managers to help you ahead of the EFL Cup semi-finals in midweek.
Mikel Arteta faced the media on Monday, while Liam Rosenior fulfilled his media duties in the aftermath of Saturday’s win over West Ham United. New quotes from it were just released this afternoon.
We expect something from Eddie Howe and Pep Guardiola on Tuesday.
ARSENAL
said Mikel Arteta Bukayo Saka (hip) was “better” after the winger withdrew from Arsenal’s starting XI after the warm-up at Elland Road on Saturday.
However, as usual, there was no concrete return date for the England international.
“We have to wait. Today he was better, but we have to see how he reacts and then make a decision.”
“It doesn’t look like anything very serious. We’ll see whether he will be available tomorrow or next weekend.” – Mikel Arteta on Bukayo Saka
The Gunners confirmed that yesterday Mikel Merino had been operated on for a foot injury. A long period of rehabilitation follows.
“We hope so, I don’t know. Obviously he has to go through a procedure, which is never positive. He is a big player for us, a player who is so versatile and has the ability to compete in different positions. That is a big blow.”
“Yes, [it’s a fracture].” – Mikel Arteta on whether Mikel Merino will play again this season
Arteta said there were no other new injuries apart from these two.
Max Dowman (ankle) is the only other player on the injury list.
CHELSEA
Jamie Gittens suffered a hamstring injury against West Ham, but as Rosenior was speaking only an hour or two after full-time in that match, the medical team had not been able to properly assess the winger at the time.
“Unfortunately Jamie felt his hamstring. I don’t know how serious the injury is. It’s really a shame for him.”
“Hopefully it’s not too bad.” – Liam Rosenior on Jamie Gittens
Philip Jorgensen also has a blow but could come back on Tuesday.
“He is close. He is almost fit and hopefully it will be Arsenal or the game after that.” – Liam Rosenior on Filip Jorgensen
As for Estevaowas given compassionate leave this weekend after missing the last win over the Hammers. It is not known whether he will return mid-week.
‘I don’t know yet [if he’ll be back]. With Este, he is a young boy who has become great. He is going through a very difficult time for personal reasons and is on medical leave. I won’t put any pressure on him. It has to be good for him and he has to feel like he is in the right place to perform for this team.” – Liam Rosenior on Estevao
Dario Essugo (unknown), Tosin Adarabioyo (hamstring), Romeo Lavia (quadruplets), Levi Colwill (knee) and Mychailo Mudryk (suspended) to stay outside.
Apart from injuries, Rosenior was asked about his condition Enzo Fernandezwho has started six games in a row – the longest run of anyone at Chelsea.
“He is as fit as you see him today, arriving in the penalty area in the 92nd and 93rd minute. Enzo has a rare athleticism, which is a gift, which allows him to recover very quickly, and his distances covered in terms of our data are absolutely top. The quality and leadership he brings to the team. I really enjoy working with him.” – Liam Rosenior on Enzo Fernandez
The Chelsea boss was also asked if he had a ‘best XI’ in mind after almost a month in office.
“I don’t have the best team. I have never done that at all the clubs I have worked with. Why? Because of the demands, the physical demands of the Premier League or Ligue I or the Championship now with 46 games. You need a team and you have to use the players in the right way to challenge over the course of the season.” – Liam Rosenior
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