Arsenal confirm trio will be assessed ahead of Everton game, one player ruled out

Arsenal have confirmed that Bernd Leno, Emile Smith Rowe and Granit Xhaka will be assessed ahead of tonight’s Premier League clash against Everton.

The Gunners have lost two of the previous league games, and they are currently lying seventh on the table.

They have the chance to return to fifth with a victory at Goodison Park. Ahead of the game, the club have provided a fitness update on four first-team stars.

Mikel Arteta confirmed in his press conference that Smith Rowe was doubtful. In an official update yesterday, it appears that he is still being assessed.

Bernd Leno was recently ruled out of the Old Trafford trip with a tight groin. The German is also likely to undergo a late fitness test alongside Granit Xhaka.

Xhaka picked up a serious knee injury back in late September. He was initially predicted to return at the turn of the year, but has made a remarkable recovery.

The Swiss may not make the starting line-up after a long-term absence, but his presence in the matchday squad should provide a huge lift for the north London giants.

Sead Kolasinac remains the only confirmed absentee. The left-back suffered a significant ankle injury on international duty, but could return to full training next month.

Our view:

The Gunners were made to rue for unforced defensive errors against Manchester United, and Arteta will be hoping for a better response against the Toffees tonight.

Smith Rowe has been a hugely influential player this term with five goals and two assists in the league, but the club have the quality to make up for his absence.

Gabriel Martinelli has recently excelled with a goal and an assist against Newcastle and United respectively, and he could start for the second game running.

There have been calls from some fans for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to be dropped, but judging by Arteta’s pre-match comments, he looks set to start again.

The club captain has impressed with his workrate and movement into the box, but has been a huge letdown with his finishing and needs to step up big time.

The Toffees did the double over the Gunners last season. However, they are in a poor run of form with eight winless games.

The Gunners have an excellent chance to return to winning ways and go within one point of the final Champions League spot.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com