Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has provided an injury update on his first-team squad ahead of Sunday’s Premier League game versus Watford.
Speaking in his press conference, the Frenchman confirmed that Sead Kolasinac is doubtful for the encounter after picking up an ankle injury against AC Milan, though Calum Chambers is likely to return after suffering from cramps on Thursday night.
Other than this, there was a positive update on the fitness of Nacho Monreal, who could return in time for the return leg against AC Milan in the Europa League round of 16.
Elsewhere, Hector Bellerin remains sidelined with a knee issue which ruled him out of the Rossoneri trip in midweek whilst Alexandre Lacazette is unlikely to return to first-team action until after the international break.
Wenger said: “Sead Kolasinac has an ankle problem, but we don’t rule him out for Sunday yet.
“Calum Chambers had cramps, because he played in a position which he is not used to for a centre back. He should be OK though.”
“Nacho Monreal is on a good way, he could be available again for next Thursday.
“Hector Bellerin we don’t know yet, we have to see. He is not available for the weekend though.Alexandre Lacazette has his first run today, but won’t be back until after the international break.”
Arsenal are presently depleted in the full-back positions through injuries, and the fans will hope that Sead Kolasinac passes a late fitness test, else Ainsley Maitland-Niles could slot into the left side of the backline.
Watford have enjoyed 2-1 wins over Arsenal in each of their last two meetings, but the Gunners should come up with a strong response this weekend after a morale-boosting triumph over Milan in the Europa League.
A 13-point gap to fourth spot suggests the Champions League hunt via the league phase is more or less over, but keeping a winning mentality from now on could be essential to competing for the Europa League crown this term.
