Mikel Arteta has provided a fresh injury update ahead of Arsenal's Premier League encounter with West Ham United this Sunday. The Gunners boss confirmed that midfielders Mikel Merino and Jurrien Timber have 'no chance' of being available for the match at the London Stadium.
No Chance for Duo
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta stated: 'No chance for them this weekend.' When pressed on whether either player would feature again before the end of the season, he added: 'I don't know, there is still a fair bit to do. Everything needs to be so smooth and quick.'
Timber's Ankle Issue
Arteta elaborated on Timber's ankle injury, which has sidelined him for an extended period. 'Yes, and that has probably been the most difficult thing to manage, with the player, with myself as well,' he said. 'We didn't expect it to take so long, and he's not fit to play.'
The Arsenal manager did offer some positive news, confirming that no fresh injuries have been suffered by the squad. The exact return dates for Merino and Timber remain unclear, but Arteta's comments suggest their availability for the remainder of the campaign is uncertain.
More updates on this story will follow as they become available.
