Arsenal could be without Granit Xhaka and Laurent Koscielny for their trip to take on Southampton tomorrow.
The Gunners need a strong finish to the season to have any hopes of climbing their way back inside the top-four, and in-turn qualify for next term’s Champions League competition, and face a tough task away to the Saints.
That trip could now be a little more daunting, as they may end up having to play without Granit Xhaka and Laurent Koscielny, who have both been key players in the new 3-4-2-1 system.
The Swiss international has been forming an exciting partnership with Aaron Ramsey at the base of midfield in recent weeks, and opened the scoring in the weekend’s 2-0 win over Man United, but is set for tests, but is believed likely to feature.
Koscielny is less likely to make the trip however, but we should have Shkodran Mustafi back in the side following an injury, and he may well have to take his place.
Wenger said: “We have some worries for Koscielny he might not be available, he will have a test today.
“We will make the decision after training. Xhaka similar but he looks to have recovered well, news for him is better.”
Lucas Perez is also believed to be available for the trip to Southampton following an injury, while Santi Cazorla remains on the sidelines.
Danny Welbeck is also believed to be out after picking up a toe injury against Man United on Sunday.
The Saints will also be without their key defender in Virgil Van Dijk, who has been sidelined since February, and could miss the remainder of the season.
The defender is linked with a switch to Arsenal (as well as a number of other clubs), but his manager Claude Puel claims they will not be selling the defender.
How much of a blow will it be to lose Koscielny tomorrow? Who would take Xhaka’s central role if he was ruled out?
Pat J