Mikel Arteta says Arsenal's "massive weapon" could be available to face Chelsea

Arsenal take on Chelsea in Sunday’s much-awaited Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.

The Gunners have picked up 29 points from 12 games into the campaign. They hold a six-point lead over the Blues and will aim to extend the advantage with a win.

Ahead of the London derby, manager Mikel Arteta has provided some positive news on the injury front.

Leandro Trossard was substituted early against Bayern Munich in the Champions League in midweek with a possible calf issue. Arteta has now revealed that there is not much of a concern.

In his pre-match press conference, the Spanish tactician said Trossard will undergo another fitness test today. There is a potential chance he could be involved on Sunday.

He said via Arsenal.com: “Yeah, with Leo there’s another test today, we have to see how he’s feeling. It doesn’t look much, so we still have a few hours and we’ll have to see, it’s a potential chance (that he will be available).”

Trossard’s availability would be a huge boost for Arsenal

The Belgian was handed a pay rise last summer, which received a mixed reception among the fans. There were suggestions that Trossard should have been sold to purchase a marquee left winger.

However, that feeling has completely changed over the last few months. Trossard has answered his critics with an impressive 10 goal contributions from just 16 appearances for Arsenal this term.

He has scored some crucial goals, including a winner against Fulham at Craven Cottage. Shortly after that game, Arteta described the 30-year-old as a ‘massive weapon‘ as he can create magical moments.

Trossard has started the last eight league matches for the Gunners on the left wing, and we won’t be surprised if he retains his place in the XI if he is deemed fit for the London derby.

The former Brighton & Hove Albion star likes to play against Chelsea. He has bagged four goals in 10 meetings, including a late equaliser in a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge in October 2023.

Suppose he is only deemed fit to make the bench, Gabriel Martinelli looks a frontrunner to get the nod ahead of Noni Madueke, given he is a specialist left winger, unlike the England international.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

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