Arsenal Team News: Wenger Offers Injury Update Ahead Of Liverpool Clash

Arsenal take on Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday lunchtime looking to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table.

Ahead of the game, boss Arsene Wenger has been speaking to the media at his pre-match press conference on Thursday morning and gave Arsenal.com the latest team news.

The Frenchman confirmed that he will have a similar to squad to the one that beat Crystal Palace 2-0 on Sunday at the Emirates, although he hopes to have Jack Wilshere back in contention.

The midfielder has missed the last two games with an ankle problem but Wenger is hopeful he’ll be available for what’s going to be a key run of fixtures for the Gunners. Wilshere is likely to be given a late fitness test before it’s decided whether he’ll make the trip to Merseyside or stay in London.

Arsenal fans were concerned to see Mikel Arteta limping towards the end of Sunday’s win over Palace, however, Wenger has eased fears the Spaniard had picked up an injury by confirming the midfielder is ‘alright’.

The Arsenal boss told the clubs official website:

on the team news…

The team news is basically similar to the squad that was available in our last game against Crystal Palace. We might have Wilshere back and that’s basically it.

on the boost of possibly having Wilshere back…

It’s important to have as many players back as possible in the squad. In the big games it is always decided by having the complete squad available. As many top players as possible because most of the time these games are decided by players who come on or strong players who have a big statement in a big game.

on Arteta, who was limping at the end of the Palace game…

He’s alright.

With Wilshere still a doubt, Mathieu Flamini suspended and Aaron Ramsey will nursing a thigh injury, the last thing Arsenal needed was another injury in central midfield so it will certainly be a huge relief that Arteta is okay.

The Gunners head into this vital clash with Liverpool sitting two points clear at the top of the table and can make a real statement of intent with a win. However, a home victory will dent the north Londoners chances of lifting the title and thrust the Merseysiders right back into the mix, so it’s all to play for this weekend.

What team would you like to see start this weekend? Share your suggestions below.