Arsenal have been handed a significant and timely fitness boost just hours before their crucial Premier League clash with arch-rivals Tottenham Hotspur this Sunday afternoon.
Key Quartet Spotted With The Squad
In a major development reported by The Athletic, four of the club's recently injured stars were seen with the first-team squad. Martin Odegaard, Riccardo Calafiori, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Martinelli were all spotted as Mikel Arteta's players embarked on their pre-match walk from their Islington hotel.
While the presence of the quartet does not absolutely guarantee their inclusion in the matchday squad, it is undoubtedly a welcome and positive sign for manager Mikel Arteta ahead of one of the season's most important fixtures.
Analysing The Returning Stars
The potential returns could not be better timed for The Gunners. Noni Madueke has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury against Manchester City back in September. Meanwhile, influential captain Martin Odegaard and dynamic forward Gabriel Martinelli have both been absent since October, leaving noticeable gaps in Arsenal's creative and attacking output.
The situation surrounding Riccardo Calafiori is particularly intriguing. The defender has been a mainstay this campaign, starting every Premier League game, but he missed Italy's international fixtures in November. He returned to London early to manage an ongoing hip issue, making his presence today a promising indication that the problem is being successfully managed.
Derby Stakes And Absent Friends
This fitness news provides a massive lift for a match where the stakes are incredibly high. Following Manchester City's surprising 2-1 defeat to Newcastle, Arsenal now have the opportunity to extend their lead at the Premier League summit to a commanding six points with a victory over Tottenham at the Emirates.
However, the news was not entirely positive. Notably absent from the squad walk were Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz, suggesting their respective returns to action are not yet imminent.
All eyes will now be on the team sheet at the Emirates as Arsenal fans hope these key players are declared fit to play a part in the fierce North London derby.
