Arteta issues fitness update on Gabriel ahead of Newcastle clash

PREMIER LEAGUE Arteta issues fitness update on Gabriel ahead of Newcastle clash

Mark Kinyanjui 22:58 - 05.05.2023

The Brazilian defender limped off in the 85th minute during their 3-1 win over Chelsea.

Arsenal are still monitoring the fitness of center-back Gabriel ahead of their trip to Newcastle United on Sunday.

The Brazilian went down for treatment several times during the Gunners' 3-1 win over Chelsea and left the field in the 85th minute.

Mikel Arteta is hopeful Gabriel will be fit for the game against Newcastle, but said the decision will be made on Sunday.

"We will have to see tomorrow how he is. He couldn't finish the game, so that's obviously a big sign. We will see how he is tomorrow."

Jakub Kiwior was the Brazilian’s partner for the game against Chelsea. Rob Holding replaced Gabriel, the experienced defender had been Arsenal's starting right center-back in William Saliba’s absence but may now have lost his place in the side.

Arsenal have been without Saliba for seven games since suffering a back injury against Sporting in March and Arteta insists the French man has not made progress in his recovery.

“He’s feeling better every single day but he’s still not been able to have any activity around the first team, so we don’t expect him to be with us [at Newcastle],” Mikel added.

“It’s about the healing process. Pain-wise and with things that he can do now off the pitch, I think he is in a good place, but we have to build his capacity again to have the right impact, the right load and be in good condition to train and play for the team.

“We are not yet [ruling him out for the season], because we are always hopeful and players are always pushing to play but if that is the case then we will announce that. Hopefully that will not be the case.”