Bukayo Saka is “getting closer” to making his comeback - but won’t be back in time for Arsenal’s clash with Chelsea on Sunday.
Saka, who tore his hamstring in December and underwent surgery, has not played for Arsenal since the back end of last year.
The winger is progressing well with his recovery and could return next month when the Gunners host Fulham after the international break.
“He’s getting closer, he’s stepping up and making a very good progress I would say,” said Mikel Arteta.
“So, let’s see when we start to throw him in with the team, how he reacts and how fit he can get quickly.”
Arteta made a string of changes for Wednesday’s Champions League clash with PSV Eindhoven, which they drew 2-2.
Raheem Sterling was one of those to get a rare start, but he is not eligible to play on Sunday as he is on loan from Chelsea.
Gabriel Martinelli could make his first start since last month after recovering from a hamstring injury and he came off the bench in the past two games.
Ethan Nwaneri, who was rested on Wednesday, should start out right and Leandro Trossard may lead the line instead of Mikel Merino.
Ben White started against PSV, however he is still building up his fitness after knee surgery in November and so could miss out in place of Jurrien Timber.
Myles Lewis-Skelly, who was called up by England on Friday for the first time, is competing to start at left-back with Riccardo Calafiori.
Arsenal predicted XI (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Nwaneri, Trossard, Martinelli
Injured: Havertz (hamstring), Jesus (knee), Saka (hamstring), Tomiyasu (knee)
Ineligible: Sterling
Time and date: 1.30pm GMT on Sunday 16 March 2025
Venue: Emirates Stadium
Referee: Chris Kavanagh
TV channel and live stream: Sky Sports
