Mikel Arteta confirms two Arsenal stars are out for ‘weeks’ ahead of Ipswich clash | OneFootball

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed a double injury blow ahead of the Premier League clash against Ipswich Town on Friday night.

The Gunners returned to winning ways in the top flight with a convincing 5-1 triumph over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park last weekend.

Arsenal host Ipswich at the Emirates Stadium later this week, and Arteta has confirmed bad news on Bukayo Saka.

He was substituted in the 24th minute against Palace and the manager has revealed he has a hamstring issue.

He told reporters: “He was gutted. You could tell that he hasn’t been injured because he was really emotional and really down. He will be fine, but I think he’s going to need a few days.

“He’s going to immediately realise that he’s really important in that dressing room. His body language is the only way he can help, so he had better do that.”

Raheem Sterling also sustained a knee injury in the lead-up to the derby last weekend.

The Chelsea loanee will also be sidelined for ‘weeks’. The exact timeline will be known after he undergoes further testing on Tuesday.

Arsenal secured a much-needed win against Palace on the back of two draws against Fulham and Everton in the Premier League.

However, they are still six points behind table-toppers Liverpool, who have a game in hand against the Toffees away from home.

The Gunners need to keep on winning to keep up in the title race. The setback for Saka is a huge blow ahead of a tight schedule.

Arsenal have to find ways of coping with his absence. Gabriel Martinelli looked lively on the right wing against the Eagles.

The Brazilian caught the eye with his direct running, dribbling and crossing ability. He could become a regular in the role over the next few weeks.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.