Mikel Arteta provides positive injury update on key star ahead of Liverpool clash

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a positive injury update on Oleksandr Zinchenko ahead of the FA Cup third round tie against Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners had a difficult end to 2023 with three winless games on the bounce. They played out a hard-fought 1-1 league draw at Liverpool, but this was followed by defeats to West Ham United and Fulham.

Arteta will want his side to return to winning ways against the Reds on Sunday evening and ahead of the game, the Spaniard has said that Zinchenko is progressing well from his calf injury.

The €42 million-rated star was absent from the matchday squad against Fulham due to the setback and the manager has revealed that he will be assessed in the final training session tomorrow.

He told Arsenal.com: “He is progressing well. We have another training session tomorrow and we will evaluate whether he is available or not to play and start the game. As for the rest, there is no actual news.”

Arsenal need to end winless run in FA Cup tie

The Gunners won a record 14th FA Cup title in Arteta’s first season in charge of the club. Since then, they have failed to progress beyond the fourth round of the competition.

The club have another tough challenge on their hands against Liverpool. Jurgen Klopp may rotate his players for the game, but he could still field a strong starting line-up.

Arsenal will have to play at their best to avoid another early exit from the Cup competition. The FA Cup probably presents their best chance to win a major trophy this term.

The Gunners’ next league game will be played on January 20 against Crystal Palace. The club have a winter break in between. This could be disrupted if there is a third round replay.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com