Arsenal play just their second game in four weeks when they host Brentford at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
It also marks a return to Premier League action for the first time in nine days, following last Thursday’s 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux.
Due to having just one game in the past month, the Gunners will be well rested and relatively injury free after very little action as of late.
But there are a couple of injury concerns heading into this weekend’s tie with the Bees, although Mikel Arteta is hoping that those in question can overcome their recent problems.
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 sidelines.
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Takehiro Tomiyasu
Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu hasn’t played for Arsenal since the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg defeat to Liverpool on January 20, missing the two games his side have played since.
The 23-year-old has been suffering with a recurring calf injury that he originally sustained against Leeds United in December, but it is expected that he will return against Brentford on Saturday.
On Friday, Arteta said: "The doubt was Tomiyasu, which is still not perfect, but he has trained the last few days so he is in contention and we can use him so that’s really positive."
Bernd Leno
German goalkeeper Bernd Leno was forced out of Arsenal’s trip to Wolves last Thursday after testing positive for Covid-19.
However, the 29-year-old should be expected to return to the bench for this weekend’s game as he would have completed his required period of self-isolation in the nine days since.
Speaking on Friday, Arteta said: "He’s fine. He’s recovered well, he didn’t have too many symptoms, he’s trained the last few days and he felt good so he will be available."
Gabriel Martinelli
Youngster Gabriel Martinelli is not an injury concern for the Gunners but will be missing out this weekend through suspension.
The Brazilian was sent off in the 1-0 victory over Wolves last week after picking up two yellow cards, and will therefore serve a one match ban.
This means that the 20-year-old will be available for selection again for the reverse fixture against Bruno Lage’s side on Thursday, February 24.
