Mikel Arteta has issued an injury update ahead of Monday's Premier League clash with Burnley at the Emirates Stadium, hinting that several key players could return to bolster Arsenal's title charge. However, defender Ben White is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Arsenal's Title Hopes
Arsenal head into Monday's match with the chance to move closer to the Premier League title. A win for the Gunners, combined with a defeat for rivals Manchester City against Bournemouth on Tuesday, would see Arteta's side crowned champions. However, a draw or loss would keep the door open for Pep Guardiola's team, who cut the gap to two points with a 3-0 victory over Crystal Palace.
Injury Update
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta confirmed that Ben White will miss the remainder of the season and the World Cup due to a long-term injury. "We lost Ben the other day," Arteta said. "It looks like a long-term injury. At the moment the focus is on when we can have him back, which is not going to happen in many weeks."
However, there was positive news regarding Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori, who have been struggling with their own issues. "The others are coming back," Arteta added. "We have a few days till Monday, so we will have to see. On Calafiori specifically, we don't know if he's going to be available, but hopefully it is nothing serious."
Defensive Options
If all three defenders are ruled out, Arsenal could be without a recognised right-back against Burnley. Arteta vowed to find a solution: "There are different options in relation to the opponent and what we want to do with certain players. We need to be open not just to one but two or three players."
Upcoming Fixtures
After Burnley, Arsenal face Crystal Palace on the final day before preparing for the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. The injury returns could be crucial for the run-in.
