07 April 2023 , 16:57
977
0
Mikel Arteta has refused to reveal Arsenal 's team news ahead of their Premier League trip to Liverpool on Sunday.
The Gunners can take a huge step towards sealing the title if they can secure a rare win away at Anfield. Arteta is dealing with several headaches when it comes to injuries, with William Saliba recovering from a back problem and Takehiro Tomiyasu ruled out for the season.
Star attacker Bukayo Saka was also only fit enough to start last week's win over Leeds on the bench after being hit by illness. And as he searches for every advantage he can get over Jurgen Klopp 's Reds, Arteta is keeping his cards close to his chest.
When asked about his side's latest injury news, he said: "No no real changes with the rest of the players that were still injured. We have some hope with one of them who will maybe be able to train but we'll see."
The Gunners boss was then asked the identity of the player he has hope for, but replied: "I'm not going to tell you!" The player he will most want to see return is Saliba, who has impressed at centre-back this season.
Chelsea complete record-breaking Enzo Fernandez transfer after deadline day rush
The Frenchman has formed a successful partnership with Gabriel, helping the Gunners to keep 12 clean sheets. But he suffered a back injury in the Europa League defeat to Sporting Lisbon and has not featured for Arteta's side since.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Who should start for Arsenal against Liverpool? Comment below.
Arteta is sweating on the fitness of William Saliba (Getty Images)In his place Rob Holding has stepped up to partner Gabriel, with the Englishman impressing against Crystal Palace and Leeds. While Arteta is sweating on Saliba's fitness, he has confirmed that Saka has recovered from his illness.
Arteta will now face a difficult decision over the make-up of his forward line, with one of Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, Saka and Gabriel Martinelli set to miss out. And the Gunners boss has admitted he is facing a selection headache.
"It depends on the moment and what we want to do and the quality we are seeking and the relationships that we want on certain days. Then obviously you have five changes, so you have the ability to change the game with those players, which is great for us," he said.
"It’s much better to have that problem because at the moment they are all looking really good. Normally with players that are very much in contention (we tell them) to understand why we did it or why we made that decision.
"So it’s clarity and when there is clarity, I think the emotional state of the player is much better to be ready for the club and the team that we are going to be facing on Sunday.
"One result doesn’t get you there, unfortunately! We wish because then we could have been through many different phases this season. But it’s not that easy, it would be very helpful though!"