Arsenal travel to relegation-threatened Watford in the Premier League on Sunday looking to record their fourth straight victory as they aim to move back into the top four.
The Gunners have played sporadically as of late, due to a couple of recent games being postponed due to their opposition’s other commitments, and have had the opportunity to get their injured players back to full fitness.
With their last game coming 10 days ago, Mikel Arteta ’s side should have no fresh injury concerns and will be well rested ahead of this weekend.
Two players were missing from their last matchday squad but it is hoped that both could be back in contention for this weekend.
Here is all you need to know about the current state of play at the Emirates Stadium and the expected return dates for those who have been on the sideline in recent weeks.
Do Arsenal look like the most likely side to grab fourth spot this season? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.
Emile Smith Rowe
Arsenal youngster Emile Smith Rowe missed out on Arsenal’s most recent match against Wolves on February 24 due to testing positive for Covid-19.
Smith Rowe had featured in the 2-1 victory over Brentford just five days beforehand, scoring the opening goal of the game, but fell ill over the following few days.
However, the England international returned to training on Tuesday and Arsenal’s top goalscorer this season will be hoping to hit the ground running again against Watford on Sunday.
Kieran Tierney
Defender Kieran Tierney gave Arsenal fans a scare when he pulled up clutching his thigh towards the end of last week’s 2-1 victory over Wolves and was substituted as a result.
The Scottish international has suffered no long-term setback, however, and has been involved in first-team training with the rest of the squad this week ahead of Sunday’s game.
Therefore, it can be expected that Tierney will retain his place in the starting XI and that gives Arteta a huge boost as the Gunners remain on course for a top four finish.
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu looks as though he could be facing a further spell on the sidelines and will miss out on Sunday’s trip to Vicarage Road.
After recovering from his initial thigh problem to feature in the squad against Brentford on February 19, Tomiyasu then picked up an injury in his other leg and he must now recover from a second injury.
Speaking on Friday, Arteta said: "Same place as last week. We still have the doubt with Tomiyasu, the rest I think they’re all there."
