AFC Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has admitted that five of his players will be out of the game against Arsenal on Wednesday, for various reasons.

2Arsenal got a triple injury-boost ahead of their crunch week in the race for a top-four finish.

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 24: during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Southampton FC at Emirates Stadium on February 24, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 24: during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Southampton FC at Emirates Stadium on February 24, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

The Gunners made light work of Southampton in the first half at the Emirates on Sunday however the second reminded us of the concerns we have surrounding this team.

Injuries to Alex Iwobi and Stephan Lichtsteiner compounded Unai Emery’s selection problems with the pair being replaced after 75 and 56 minutes respectively.

Speaking to the press after the game, Emery gave updates on three players and, ahead of the game against Bournemouth, we now have a better idea what players will be available as Arsenal look to consolidate fourth place.

Let’s start with…

Alex Iwobi

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 24: Alex Iwobi of Arsenal battles for possession with Yan Valery of Southampton during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Southampton FC at Emirates Stadium on February 23, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 24: Alex Iwobi of Arsenal battles for possession with Yan Valery of Southampton during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Southampton FC at Emirates Stadium on February 23, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

Alex Iwobi was replaced after 75 minutes with what looked like an ankle problem.

“I hope it’s only a knock, not a more important injury. I hope he can play Wednesday,” Emery said to reporters after the final whistle.