Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a key update on his squad’s fitness ahead of the decisive UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Arteta confirmed that defender Riccardo Calafiori is available for selection after recovering from a knee injury sustained while on international duty in March.
The Italian has missed Arsenal’s last ten matches but is now in contention for the high-stakes clash in Paris.
“He’s travelled, and he’s fit and he’s ready to play when we need him,” Arteta said. “So that’s great news obviously.”
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The Gunners also received a potential boost in the form of Jurrien Timber.
The Dutch international, who was not involved in the weekend’s Premier League win over Bournemouth, has also made the trip to the French capital.
“We will assess him today, whether he can start the game or not,” Arteta added, leaving the door open for Timber’s possible return.
With a place in the Champions League final on the line, the return of key defensive options could prove vital as Arsenal aim to overturn a narrow deficit from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium.