Mikel Arteta confirms fresh Arsenal injury blow ahead of Newcastle clash | OneFootball

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a fresh injury update ahead of the first leg of the League Cup semi-final against Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium tomorrow.

The Gunners suffered a setback at the weekend. They played out a frustrating 1-1 Premier League draw against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Amex Stadium.

They were not at their best but were unlucky not to register a win. The Seagulls scored the equaliser with a controversial penalty on the hour mark.

Arsenal have no time to ponder over the result with a key cup tie against the Magpies tomorrow.

Arteta has confirmed a new injury concern ahead of the game. Ethan Nwaneri suffered a muscular injury against Brighton, and he will be sidelined for a few weeks.

When pressed on the fitness of Kai Havertz, who has been ill, Arteta said: “Hopefully, but I don’t want to say too much.”

Arsenal suffered a 1-0 league defeat at Newcastle earlier this season. Alexander Isak scored the winner with a towering header from an Anthony Gordon cross.

The Swede will be the main scoring threat for the Magpies once more. The Gunners face a challenge to keep him quiet.

Arsenal’s record against the Magpies has been brilliant at the Emirates. They have won four and drawn one of the last five meetings.

The club have scored 13 goals during this period and dominated proceedings in a 4-1 league win at the stadium last season.

The Gunners need a solid victory with two or more goals ahead of the return fixture at St James’ Park in early February.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.