Arsenal are likely to be without William Saliba for their Premier League clash against Wolves this afternoon.
Saliba has missed the last two games but Mikel Arteta had some encouraging words over the defender’s return this week.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, the Gunners boss confirmed the France international is close to making his return with next week’s games against Girona and Manchester City more realistic dates.
Myles Lewis-Skelly also joined the injury list after picking up a knock in last weekend’s draw with Aston Villa.
Scans have detected ‘nothing serious’ with the Gunners youngster also set to be available for next week’s double header.
After Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Villa, the Gunners returned to winning ways with a comfortable victory over Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League on Wednesday night.
Arteta was able to welcome back Riccardo Calafiori and Ethan Nwaneri to the squad with the Italy international remaining among the subs while his teenage star emerged from the bench to play the final half hour in north London.
Bukayo Saka meanwhile remains sidelined along with Gabriel Jesus after the Brazil international underwent anterior cruciate ligament surgery.
Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu also remain unavailable.
Dropped points last weekend leave Arsenal six points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand at their disposal.
Arne Slot’s side host Ipswich Town on Saturday afternoon with Nottingham Forest, level on points with Arsenal in third place, away to Bournemouth.
Arsenal starting XI to face Wolves
Raya, Partey, Timber, Gabriel, Calafiori, Odegaard, Rice, Merino, Martinelli, Havertz, Trossard
Where to watch Wolves vs Arsenal? Kick-off time and TV channel
Wolves vs Arsenal kicks off this afternoon at 3pm on Saturday, January 25.
Given the 3pm kick-off time, the match will not be broadcast live in the UK.