Mikel Arteta confirms big Arsenal injury boost but midfielder ruled out

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Gabriel Martinelli will be available to face Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday after recovering from illness.

The Brazil international has been a key player for the Gunners on the left wing and he has been an undisputed starter when fit and available for selection.

Martinelli missed the midweek Champions League trip to Eindhoven with an illness but Arteta has revealed that he is feeling good to face the Seagulls.

However, the Gunners will be without the services of midfielder Mohamed Elneny, who sustained a hamstring injury in the 1-1 draw against PSV Eindhoven.

Arteta told Arsenal.com: “Martinelli is feeling good. He’ll be in contention. Mo had to be subbed. He felt something in his hamstring. We did a scan and it doesn’t look too serious so he’s going to be with us I think very soon, which is good news as well.”

Arsenal handed boost ahead of Brighton game

The Gunners are currently on a two-match winless run across all competitions. Against Aston Villa, they had clear-cut chances but were unable to capitalise on them.

The club need to respond with a victory on Sunday and Martinelli’s return is a welcome boost. The forward has been in good form since the last international break.

His pace from the left wing should make him an assured starter ahead of Leandro Trossard. Martinelli scored one of the goals in a 4-2 win over Brighton last season.

Meanwhile, Elneny’s absence is not a concern with the depth in the squad. If he is sidelined for the next few games, he may not be involved for the Gunners until February.

Egypt are participating in the African Cup of Nations next month. Elneny could link up with them on his injury return. Thomas Partey is also anticipated to travel with Ghana.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com